
A Champion’s Fairytale: Anna Hall and Darius Slayton Tie the Knot
Olympic heptathlon champion Anna Hall and New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton exchanged vows on April 11th at the stunning Oheka Castle on Long Island. Their love story, a blend of athletic admiration and serendipitous encounters, culminated in a breathtaking celebration of love and commitment.
From Instagram Follow to ‘I Do’
Darius first noticed Anna while watching her compete on television. “I had seen her running on TV, and when she came across the screen, I thought she was pretty, so I followed her on Instagram,” he recalls. Anna initially dismissed it as a gesture of respect between athletes, but fate had other plans. Their connection truly sparked when Darius was undergoing physical therapy in New Jersey and Anna was competing in a track meet in New York. He surprised her by attending her event, offering encouragement and ultimately asking her out.
A Proposal on the Track
After a year of dating, Darius proposed in November 2025, returning to the very stadium where they first met. “I took her back to the same stadium in New York, where we had met, and proposed on the track,” Darius remembers fondly. Anna, expecting a simple date, was completely surprised when the car led them to Icahn Stadium instead of a restaurant.
A Dream Wedding at Oheka Castle
The wedding itself, held five months later at the historic Oheka Castle, was a testament to Anna’s vision. “As the groom, I just wanted to help bring Anna’s dreams to life, and Oheka allowed for the perfect canvas to make that dream come true,” Darius shared. Despite Anna’s demanding competition schedule, they were determined to celebrate their love in 2026, with the help of their wedding planner, Courtney Leeder of Courtney Elizabeth Events, and Anna’s mother.
Anna’s Stunning Gown and Refined Style
Anna found her dream dress quickly, selecting a gown by Eden Aharon that made her feel confident and beautiful. “I felt confident in my body,” she says. “It still had beautiful embroidery and structure, but without being too distracting.” She complemented the dress with Manolo Blahnik heels and subtle jewelry, prioritizing a natural and elegant look. Her hair was worn down, a refreshing change from her usual athletic style.
A Ceremony Filled with Meaning
The ceremony was deeply personal, beginning with a hymn sung by Darius’s favorite gospel singer, Jekalyn Carr, inviting guests to participate. Their officiant, Andre Levrone, involved the audience, asking them to pledge their support to the couple’s marriage. Personal vows and a prayer over future generations, led by Jekalyn singing “The Blessing,” added to the emotional depth of the occasion.
Personal Touches and Lasting Memories
The reception was filled with thoughtful details, including a “love wall” featuring wedding photos of all the married guests, a surprise Anna orchestrated by gathering images from social media. The couple also enjoyed a private moment together, savoring appetizers and signature drinks before rejoining the celebration. As Darius reflects, “Looking back now, it truly feels like a dream.”
Further Reading:
- Vogue: This Fashion Designer Bride’s Wedding Dress Took 3,500 Hours to Craft
- Vogue: Emerald Cut Engagement Rings: Everything to Know About the Elegant Diamond Shape




