Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has opened up about his divorce from Melinda Gates, calling it “the mistake I most regret.”
In a candid interview with The Times, the 69-year-old billionaire admitted that the separation was a deeply painful experience, but emphasized that he feels “more cheerful now.”
Gates and Melinda announced their split in May 2021 after 27 years of marriage, finalizing their divorce in August of the same year. Despite the emotional challenges, Gates acknowledged the special bond they shared, reflecting on the years they spent together.
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“There’s something extraordinary about spending your entire adult life with one person,” Gates said. “The shared memories, the depth of what you’ve accomplished together, and having children—it’s all quite special.”
Looking back, Bill said he aspired to have a marriage similar to his parents’ 45-year relationship and was deeply invested in his family life with Melinda. He fondly recalled how Melinda stood by him throughout his rise to greater success, and how they both worked as a team in raising their children.
The couple met in 1987 when Melinda joined Microsoft, and together they founded the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. However, the divorce marked a significant shift, with Melinda ultimately deciding to step away from the foundation—a move that Bill described as particularly difficult for him to accept.
Reflecting on the divorce, Bill described it as one of his greatest personal failures. “It has to be at the top of the list. There are others, but none that compare,” he said. “The divorce was miserable for both Melinda and me for at least two years.”
Despite their separation, the former couple has worked to maintain a cordial relationship, focusing on co-parenting their three children—Jennifer, Rory, and Phoebe—all of whom are now adults.
