Kem Cetinay has impressed fans again, not for a TV appearance, but for his determination in a 24-hour padel challenge in London, which prompted a surprise message.
The Love Island 2017 winner pushed his limits at Padel Social Club in Canary Wharf, raising money for Capital’s Make Some Noise.
The 29-year-old reality star raised £306,410 for charity, sharing on Instagram: ‘What an experience. Thank you for all the donations and everyone who supported, it has gone to a great cause.’
Kem had completed a full day of back-to-back matches, with the ongoing support of the Capital FM team.
His celebrity pals were quick to praise, with singer Tom Grennan writing: ‘Well done my brother,’ and fellow ex-islander Wes Nelson saying ‘Incredible man.’
As congratulations flooded Kem’s comment section, what really caught people’s attention was a small but meaningful moment from a past flame.
Kem’s ex-girlfriend and former Love Island co-winner Amber Davies left a short message under his post about his achievement, writing: ‘Congratulations epic work!!!’
Amber, who is currently competing on Strictly Come Dancing, has been busy dazzling audiences on the dancefloor each week, but her supportive note to Kem didn’t remain out of the spotlight.
The interaction may come as a surprise to fans who recall the couple’s whirlwind romance on Love Island
It was a refreshing reminder that even though their romantic relationship ended years ago, mutual respect clearly remains.
Back in 2017, Kem and Amber were the ultimate golden couple, taking home the title after capturing hearts with their fun energy and playful chemistry in the villa.
Their split a few months later came as a shock, and although both have gone on to have successful careers, they’ve largely stayed out of each other’s public lives – but not vanished.
The pair have remained supportive, with Amber backing Kem during his stint on Dancing on Ice 2024.
She, @amber_davies7 tweeted: ‘Let’s get @KemCetinay and Alex to the final of Dancing on Ice guys !! Break a leg.’ Kem is yet to share any message about Amber’s appearance on Strictly.
As Kem powered through his final matches during the challenge, another surprise awaited him – one that hit fans right in the nostalgia.
His former Love Island best mate, Chris Hughes, turned up to show his support and even joined in for part of the challenge.
Chris and Kem became one of the most iconic bromances in Love Island history, their friendship cemented through ‘rapping to lighten the mood’, inside jokes, and later, their joint ITV show You vs Chris & Kem.
Chris arrived at the event in the early hours, joking that he hadn’t slept but wouldn’t miss it for the world.
The pair shared an emotional moment on court, with Chris teasing Kem by saying he was ‘still the same, still the same height.’
Their reunion was a highlight of the challenge, showing that even years after leaving the villa, their friendship remains strong.
Chris has been busy this week supporting his girlfriend, JoJo Siwa, on her Infinity Heart Tour.
The pair met on this year’s Celebrity Big Brother, and the unlikely lovebirds have been inseparable ever since.
Between Amber’s thoughtful message and Chris’s surprise appearance, Kem’s 24-hour challenge turned into more than just a sporting event.
Love Island fans can now sleep happily knowing their favourite winners are amicable again.
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