After Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift announced their engagement, ex-girlfriend Kayla Nicole shared a cryptic Instagram Story about “choosing joy.” Fans wonder if it’s a subtle response.
The world is buzzing after Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce announced their engagement on August 26, 2025. But while fans and celebrities rushed to congratulate the couple, Kelce’s ex-girlfriend Kayla Nicole sparked attention with a cryptic Instagram Story.
Swift and Kelce’s Big Announcement
The Kansas City Chiefs star and the global pop icon shared the news on Instagram with romantic photos surrounded by flowers. Their caption read:
“Your English teacher and your gym teacher are getting married.”
The couple began dating in 2023, after Kelce famously expressed his crush on Swift during his New Heights podcast. Before that, Kelce dated Nicole on-and-off for five years until their breakup in 2022.
Kayla Nicole’s Message About “Choosing Joy”
Although Nicole did not directly respond to the engagement, she posted a video clip of actress Tracee Ellis Ross discussing the deeper meaning of joy:
“Happiness is something you can get at 7-Eleven. Joy is something that you earn, that has roots, that creates space for more than just a good day.”
Nicole added her own note:
“Read about this very concept years ago in a book called ‘Choose Joy: Because Happiness Isn’t Enough.’ I aspire! So so good.”
Many saw the timing as symbolic, suggesting she was sharing how she finds strength despite the spotlight.
Life After a Public Breakup
Nicole has previously admitted that her split from Kelce and the constant attention on his new relationships have been overwhelming. On Special Forces: The World’s Toughest Test, she explained:
“I could post about the sky being blue, and people will tie it back to my ex and his new situation. It makes me question my overall value as a person.”
Despite the pain, Nicole has publicly expressed respect for Swift, calling her “very talented” and emphasizing she wishes her well.
Engagement Sparks Reactions Everywhere
From Selena Gomez to Donald Trump, reactions to Swift and Kelce’s engagement are flooding social media. But Nicole’s subtle message about choosing joy may be the most meaningful — a quiet reminder of resilience and self-worth in the face of public scrutiny.
👉 Do you think Nicole’s post was a hidden response to the engagement? Share your thoughts in the comments.
