Influencer Amy Pejkovic confirms ‘mature break-up’ with footy star

A popular athlete turned model and influencer has announced her break-up from her footy star boyfriend, saying they’re “better as friends”.

An Australian influencer has confirmed her split from her footy player boyfriend, revealing the pair are “better as friends”.

Amy Pejkovic had been dating retired Essendon star David Zaharakis for four years after reportedly meeting on Instagram during the global pandemic.

However, their romance has come to an end after the pair decided they “weren’t as compatible as we thought we were”, Pejkovic said.

Amy Pejkovic has confirmed her split from David Zaharakis. Picture: Supplied

The model and influencer is now living in Sydney after moving out of the Melbourne home she shared with the former AFL star. Picture: Instagram/AmyPejkovic

“We decided we’d be better as friends,’’ the 31-year-old told the Herald Sun.

“I’m proud of how we’ve handled it.

“We weren’t as compatible as we thought we were. I loved him with all my heart and I have so much admiration for him and still love him.”

Pejkovic, a former high jumper who overcame a brain tumour after being diagnosed at age 19, said she had moved out of their Melbourne home amid their “mature break-up” – and is now living in Sydney.

“It’s a new start and I’ll hit the ground running with work,’’ she added.

“It’s going to be a good 2025, I feel like I’m starting the new year with a new chapter.

“He’s also very excited to see what I do next year. That’s life.”

‘We decided we’d be better as friends.’ Picture: Lucas Dawson

The 31-year-old is now focusing on the future. Picture: Supplied

As Pejkovic looks ahead to the future, she said she will be “in Melbourne for the Australian Open and the Australian Grand Prix” and hopes to one day land a job in Europe.

Zaharakis, who has been in Taupō, New Zealand for the Ironman World Championship 2024, thanked his fans for “all the messages and comments” on his Instagram Stories.

The break-up comes after the former AFL star sold his northeast Melbourne party pad for $3.565 million.

Their last public appearance was at the 2024 Caulfield Cup in Melbourne on October 19.