Arie Luyendyk Jr. Congratulates ‘Bachelorette’ Emily Maynard On Engagement, But Says Reality Show ‘Cursed’ His Love Life
Jan. 14 2014, Published 10:51 a.m. ET
No bad feelings here! Arie Luyendyk Jr. has moved on since his failed romance with Bachelorette Emily Maynard and speaking exclusively to RadarOnline.com, the Arizona race car driver says he’s happy for the newly engaged reality star -- but admits reality TV ruined his own love life.
Luyendyk, who was the runner up on season 8 of The Bachelorette, had nothing but kind words for Maynard, who got engaged to boyfriend Tyler Johnson after the New Year.
“I’m happy for her. I knew that she was in a serious relationship, so I’m very happy that she’s found that person she’s happy with. I wish her the best,” Luyendyk told Radar.
After getting rejected by Maynard, 26, Luyendyk revealed he’s ready to move on from the franchise.
"During the show, I gained a lot of clarity on what I wanted to do in life. For me, it really made me just focus on my career when I got out. That's my first love.
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“I’m shifting my focus back to racing,” he said.
As for his dating life, Luyendyk blames the show for his lack of long-term relationships.
“The show cursed my love life,” he said. “Before the show, I was serial monogamous, and now I just can’t seem to find a steady girlfriend."
Despite traveling 250 days a year, the hunky Bachelorette contestant is still looking for “The One.”
“I always meet great people when I’m traveling, and then we’re suddenly in a long-distance relationship. It’s hard,” he added.
“I have this crazy life. I love being on the road and being adventurous, so I have to find someone who has flexibility in her work.”
Not giving up hope, he joked: “Who knows. Maybe, I’ll meet someone at Sean Lowe’s wedding.”