AFL cult figure Bailey Smith’s new girlfriend revealed
The most followed footballer in Australia has gone public with his new romance with the first pictures of his new girlfriend emerging.
Bulldogs star Bailey Smith is reportedly in a new relationship.
The popular social media sensation last month posted photos with his new girlfriend on Instagram for the first time when they attended the Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park in Melbourne.
Smith also posted photos of his behind the scenes fun at the Grand Prix, where he was also seen on the starting grid before the race alongside teammate Marcus Bontempelli.
The Herald Sun has now revealed the woman seen alongside the 21-year-old is Gemma Dawkins, who completes one of the most genetically blessed couples in Australian sport.
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The couple have never publicly spoken about their romance, but Smith earlier this month confirmed he was in a relationship.
The midfielder last year became the most marketable figure in Australian football when he surpassed Dustin Martin and Lance Franklin as the most followed player on Instagram.
His 360,000 followers has catapulted him into a series of sponsorship deals, including with Cotton On, Monster Energy and Telstra.
He even features on giant billboard ads in Melbourne.
“It’s funny. My girlfriend’s dad drives past it every day,’’ Smith told Code Sports last week.
“It’s hilarious … It’s interesting but I don’t pay too much attention to it. I try not to. I just focus on my footy, because that’s what comes first, and all those other rewards with Cotton On and Monster come after that.
“As long as I keep trying to perform and work hard during the week all those other fruits and exciting things come.”
Smith has previously spoken about his efforts to keep his private life private, despite his enormous social media presence.
He last year revealed battles with mental health and some horrifying aspects of being such a high-profile figure.
He has previously been a victim of a viral, fake nude-photo scandal and revealed he is repeatedly hit up with private message requests, including a text message offer of $50,000 to sleep with someone.
Smith announced in December he was taking “indefinite leave” from football to deal with a family matter and personal issues.
The Bulldogs granted him extended leave over summer to train by himself away from teammates.
Smith was in October investigated by police over an alleged incident at a popular Gold Coast night spot.