Bill Gates, a name synonymous with technological innovation and global philanthropy, remains a prominent figure in the 21st century. As the co-founder of Microsoft, his influence on the world of personal computing is undeniable. But beyond his groundbreaking career, many are curious about Bill Gates’ personal life, including a simple yet frequently asked question: How Old Is Bill Gates?
Born on October 28, 1955, William Henry Gates III, most famously known as Bill Gates, is currently 69 years old. This milestone age in 2025 finds Gates in a reflective yet active phase of his life, marked by continued philanthropic endeavors and a blossoming new relationship. After his high-profile divorce from Melinda French Gates in August 2021, Gates has found companionship with Paula Hurd, a relationship that has brought him renewed joy.
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Bill Gates and Paula Hurd making their red carpet debut at the 10th Annual Breakthrough Prize Ceremony in Los Angeles in April 2024.
In a January 2025 interview with The Times of London, Gates himself acknowledged feeling “more cheerful” at 69, highlighting a positive chapter in his life. This newfound happiness is partly attributed to his relationship with Paula Hurd, which was publicly confirmed in February 2023. However, the pair had been seen together at various events for months prior, suggesting a developing connection behind the scenes.
Their public appearances began attracting attention as early as September 2022 at the Laver Cup and continued into January 2023 at the Australian Open. These sightings fueled speculation about their relationship, which was eventually confirmed by sources close to the couple. By April 2024, Bill Gates and Paula Hurd made their relationship red carpet official at the Breakthrough Prize Ceremony, marking a significant step in their public journey as a couple.
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Bill Gates and Paula Hurd attending the 2024 Paris Olympics, showcasing their shared interests in global events.
Speaking about Paula Hurd publicly for the first time in February 2025 during an appearance on Today, Bill Gates expressed his contentment, stating, “I’m lucky to have a serious girlfriend named Paula. We’re having fun. Going to the Olympics and lots of great things.” This statement offered a glimpse into their shared life and the joy Paula Hurd brings to Bill Gates as he approaches his 70th birthday.
Who is Paula Hurd?
Paula Hurd is not new to the world of business and influence. She is the widow of Mark Hurd, the former CEO of software giant Oracle and previously the head of Hewlett-Packard. Mark Hurd passed away in October 2019, after nearly 30 years of marriage to Paula.
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Paula Hurd and her late husband, Mark Hurd, highlighting her long-standing presence in business circles.
Paula Hurd’s own professional background is rooted in the tech industry. A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin with a business administration degree in 1984, she spent decades in sales and alliance management at NCR Corporation, a major provider of software and hardware solutions. Currently, she leverages her experience to curate and organize events for personal, corporate, and charitable purposes, as indicated on her LinkedIn profile.
Beyond her professional life, Paula Hurd is also recognized for her philanthropic activities. She and her late husband were actively involved in numerous charitable causes. A significant contribution was made to Baylor University, Mark Hurd’s alma mater, where her $7 million donation in 2021 played a crucial role in the university’s Give Light Campaign reaching its $1 billion goal. The university further honored the couple by opening the Mark and Paula Hurd Welcome Center in September 2023. Paula Hurd has two daughters, Kathryn and Kelly, from her marriage with Mark Hurd, adding another dimension to her life beyond her public persona and relationship with Bill Gates.
Bill Gates and Paula Hurd: A Timeline of Their Relationship
While Bill Gates, at 69 years old, navigates this new chapter, his relationship with Paula Hurd has become a focal point of public interest. Here’s a brief timeline of their journey together:
- September 2022 – January 2023: Spotted together at sporting events, including the Laver Cup and Australian Open, sparking initial rumors.
- February 2023: Relationship officially confirmed by sources, described as “widely known” within their circles.
- July 2023: Engagement rumors briefly surfaced after Paula Hurd was seen wearing a ring, quickly dismissed by Bill Gates’ spokesperson who clarified the ring was a long-time possession and not an engagement symbol.
- August 2023: Attended Jeff Bezos’ engagement party in Italy, marking a high-profile social event together.
- March 2024: Participated in Anant Ambani’s pre-wedding celebration in India, showcasing their presence on the global stage.
- April 2024: Made their red carpet debut at the Breakthrough Prize Ceremony, solidifying their public relationship status.
- August 2024: Attended the 2024 Paris Olympics with Bill Gates’ daughter Jennifer Gates, indicating integration with family life.
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Bill Gates and Paula Hurd at Jeff Bezos’ engagement party in August 2023, highlighting their presence in elite social circles.
As Bill Gates enjoys his 69th year, his relationship with Paula Hurd appears to be a source of happiness and companionship. From attending global events to sharing personal moments, their journey together is being watched with interest, adding a personal dimension to the public perception of one of the world’s most influential figures. Knowing how old Bill Gates is provides context to his current life stage – one where personal fulfillment and continued engagement with the world go hand in hand.
