Despite the Notre Dame Fighting Irish’s emotional exit in the Sweet 16 of the 2024-2025 NCAA season, one thing stood out crystal clear: Sonia Citron was the undisputed leader of that team. The 21-year-old shooting guard dazzled throughout the year, averaging 14.1 points and 5.4 rebounds per game with the kind of consistency and poise that earned her the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft by the Washington Mystics.
But while Citron’s talent on the court earned her national recognition, her personal life also caught attention-specifically her relationship with a rising NFL player, Marist Liufau.
Who is Marist Liufau?
Marist Liufau, a Hawaii native, was a standout linebacker at Notre Dame, just like Citron was a star on the basketball team. At 6-foot-2 and known for his hard-hitting style, Liufau racked up 117 total tackles during his college career and earned accolades like being a semifinalist for the prestigious Butkus Award. After wrapping up his collegiate run in 2023, he was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the third round (87th overall) in 2024.
Since joining the Cowboys, Liufau has been thrust into the national spotlight-not just for his play on the field, but also due to his relationship with Citron, which turned heads during the 2025 WNBA Draft.
A Quiet But Strong Relationship
Though neither has gone public with many details, fans first noticed their relationship when Citron posted a sweet anniversary message on Instagram in January 2024, celebrating two years with the caption, “Two with you.” That post gave a rare glimpse into a bond that seems to be as solid off the court as Citron’s game is on it.
Both athletes met at Notre Dame and, by all accounts, grew close while navigating the demands and expectations of college athletics. Despite the heavy media focus, they’ve kept things mostly private-sharing only subtle nods to each other on social media, like celebratory messages and casual photos from off-days together.
At 24, Liufau is three years older than Citron, and their relationship now spans both the WNBA and NFL worlds. During the WNBA Draft, Liufau was there in person to support Citron, embracing her right after her name was called. It was a moment that showcased not just love, but mutual respect between two athletes beginning new chapters at the professional level.
And while some social media chatter has mocked Liufau’s fashion choices or reactions during the televised WNBA Draft moment, it hasn’t dampened the spotlight on this promising couple-if anything, it’s only added to their charm as fans rally behind the duo.
The Future Is Bright
Sonia Citron now steps into a key role with the Washington Mystics, bringing with her a legacy of excellence that started from her freshman year, where she averaged 11.8 points and 6.6 rebounds per game, all the way through her standout junior and senior seasons. Her resume includes an ACC Rookie of the Year award, All-ACC First Team honors, and years of sustained performance.
Meanwhile, Liufau is just getting started with the Cowboys, eager to prove himself on one of the NFL’s most iconic stages.
Whether it’s courtside or on the sidelines, this is a power couple to keep an eye on-as their careers (and relationship) continue to rise.
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