**Bill Gates Opens Up About Life, Regrets, and His Divorce from Melinda French Gates**
Billionaire and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates recently shared a rare glimpse into his personal life, naming his divorce from Melinda French Gates as the greatest mistake of his life. In an interview with *The Times of London* ahead of the release of his memoir *Source Code*, Gates reflected on the end of his 27-year marriage and its lasting impact.
### A Marriage That Spanned Nearly Three Decades
Gates described the unique bond he shared with Melinda during their decades-long marriage. “There is a certain wonderfulness to spending your entire adult life with one person because of the memories and depth of things you have done and having kids together,” he said. Gates acknowledged that their journey together began before his meteoric rise to becoming one of the wealthiest individuals in the world. “When Melinda and I met, I was fairly successful but not ridiculously successful — that came during the time that we were together. So, she saw me through a lot.”
The couple, who married in 1994, announced their separation in 2021, citing an “irretrievably broken” relationship. Their divorce marked the end of a partnership that extended far beyond their personal lives, touching their philanthropic efforts and public endeavors.
### “A Sad Thing” and a “Tough Year”
In a follow-up interview with NBC News’ *TODAY* show in 2022, Gates called the divorce “definitely a sad thing” and admitted it was a difficult period for him and his family. “I have responsibility for causing a lot of pain to my family. It was a tough year,” he said. However, Gates expressed optimism about moving forward, adding, “I feel good that all of us are moving forward now.”
### Philanthropy Amid Personal Struggles
Despite their divorce, the couple initially continued to work together through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, one of the world’s largest private charitable organizations. At the time of their separation, they committed to jointly managing the foundation for at least two years. If the arrangement proved challenging, French Gates agreed to step down from her roles as co-chair and trustee.
Last year, French Gates made the decision to resign, a move that Gates admitted “disappointed” him. He spoke candidly about the challenges they faced during that period, describing the divorce as “miserable” for both parties. However, Gates highlighted their shared commitment to maintaining a healthy family dynamic despite the difficulties.
### Finding a New Normal
In his interview with *The Times of London*, Gates indicated that his relationship with French Gates has improved since the separation. “Melinda and I still see each other — we have three kids and two grandchildren, so there are family events,” he said. He also expressed pride in their children, adding, “The kids are doing well. They have good values.”
Gates’ reflections suggest that, while the divorce remains a painful chapter, both he and French Gates have worked hard to foster a sense of normalcy for the sake of their family.
### Few Regrets Beyond the Divorce
When asked if there were other regrets in his life, Gates acknowledged that there were some but dismissed them as insignificant compared to the end of his marriage. “There are others, but none that matter,” he said.
### Looking Ahead
As Gates prepares for the release of his memoir, his reflections on personal growth, mistakes, and resilience offer a rare look into the life of one of the world’s most influential figures. While his divorce remains a source of regret, Gates appears focused on the future, both in his philanthropic efforts and his role as a father and grandfather.
This candid interview sheds light on the human side of the billionaire, emphasizing that even the most successful individuals grapple with personal struggles and regrets.
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