Shaquille O’Neal might be feeling a bit apprehensive about reading his ex-wife’s upcoming memoir.
On Wednesday, Shaunie Henderson, the 49-year-old ex-wife of the 51-year-old NBA legend, revealed the release of her upcoming memoir, titled UNDEFEATED: Changing the Rules and Winning on My Own Terms, set to be published by Gallery Books in May.
Following Henderson’s announcement, O’Neal shared the book’s cover on his Instagram account, playfully writing, “Uh oh naaa I’m just playing,” and including a “congrats” in the caption.
Henderson and O’Neal tied the knot in 2002 and have four children together: Shareef, Shaqir, Amirah, and Me’arah. Additionally, O’Neal has a stepson, Myles, from Henderson’s previous relationship, and a daughter, Taahirah, from a previous girlfriend.
Their relationship, spanning from the late 1990s to its conclusion in 2009, was marked by challenges, including issues of infidelity that O’Neal openly discussed in his 2011 memoir, Shaq Uncut: My Story.
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Henderson acknowledged her longstanding reluctance to share personal details publicly, especially concerning her relationships. She clarified that her memoir wouldn’t be about discrediting O’Neal but rather sharing her own journey.
Despite the challenges, she commended O’Neal for publicly acknowledging the issues in their marriage, making it somewhat easier for her to express her side.
While recognizing the sensitivity around discussing O’Neal, Henderson emphasized that her intent is not to tarnish his reputation. She highlighted that her memoir is a reflection of her story and experiences, with O’Neal being a part of it.
On an episode of The Pivot Podcast, O’Neal spoke positively about Henderson and his former girlfriend Arnetta Yardbourgh, expressing gratitude for the beautiful children they’ve given him and emphasizing his commitment to protect, provide, and love them forever.
