“Biggest killer”: Tom Brady's ex-wife Gisele Bündchen faced backlash after risking their baby’s life in reckless ATV joyride with no helmet

In 2014, Gisele Bündchen—international supermodel and mother—found herself at the center of a public safety controversy in Costa Rica. The issue? A photo surfaced of her riding an ATV without a helmet while holding her then-infant daughter, Vivian, in one arm. The incident quickly drew criticism, not only because of the obvious safety risks but also because riding helmetless on an ATV is illegal in Costa Rica.According to TMZ Sports, the photograph raised legal and ethical eyebrows. However, the outlet speculated that Bündchen may have been on a private beach, which could make her actions technically permissible. In response to the growing backlash, her representative told ABC News, “Gisele was on a private beach driving very, very slowly.”Just as the public debate started to settle, another similar incident reignited the controversy. This time, Bündchen and her then-husband, NFL star Tom Brady, were seen once again riding an ATV in Costa Rica—still without helmets and with baby Vivian in a sling. The Daily Mail published the images, noting that none of the three wore protective gear, and highlighting the heightened risk of head injuries in ATV accidents.The situation stirred concern among health and safety experts. Speaking to the BBC (via Daily Mail), Dr. John Heyworth emphasized the life-threatening risks involved. “We know that the riders on these quad bikes are at real risk of serious injury and even death because they are seriously unprotected,” he said. “We know from experience that head injuries are the biggest killer in these sorts of accidents. So for goodness sake let's protect these riders. It's a simple bit of protection for them that will save lives.”The backlash Gisele faced wasn’t just about legality—it was about responsibility. As a global celebrity and role model, many expected her to set a safer example, especially when children are involved. With ATV-related accidents on the rise worldwide, the expectation for public figures to follow safety protocols has never been more pressing.Also Read: How Gisele Bündchen’s belief in psychic intuition and energy clashed with Tom Brady’s logic-driven mindsetIn this case, the issue wasn't only what was legal, but what was smart and safe—especially for a young child’s well-being.