We finally know the real reason Gemma Owen and Jacques O’Neill broke up before they appeared on Love Island.
The 19-year-old, who is the daughter of footballer Michael Owen, was stunned last week when her rugby player ex entered the villa as a bombshell.
The former couple had been in a year-long relationship before they called it quits during the summer of 2020.
Speaking to The Sun, a close friend of Jacques has revealed the pair broke up after the 23-year-old took up a spot in Super League club, Castleford Tigers.
His move forced the couple into a long-distance relationship, as they lived a two-hour drive apart.
“Jacques was really focussed on his rugby career,” the source explained.
“Even though he was in a relationship with Gemma, he didn’t want to let that stop him from taking the chance to play for Leeds.”
“He moved two hours away from where she lives in Cheshire.”
“Things between them went downhill pretty quickly while trying long-distance. They didn’t last long after that,” the insider added.
Love Island fans were previously convinced the rugby star entered the villa to win his ex-girlfriend back.
However, Jacques is currently coupled up with paramedic Paige Thorne, and the pair enjoyed a steamy night in the Hideaway on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, Gemma is currently loved-up with fishmonger Luca Bish.
The source added that Jacques “wouldn’t dare get back with Gemma” because his rugby friends would give him “too much stick”.
Love Island continues tonight at 9pm on Virgin Media Two.
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