Before Love Island Australia Season 8, Gold Coast bombshell Zel had a thriving football career.

Who Is Merizel "Zel" Dos Santos?

Born April 25, 1998, the 28-year-old grew up in the UK speaking four languages fluently.

Raised in the UK & Fluent in 4 Languages

Zel played in the West Ham United development squad before moving to the Australian football league.

From West Ham United to Australia

After sports injuries ended his football career early, Gold Coast agencies signed Zel as a model.

How Injuries Launched His Modelling Career

Entering on Day 3, Zel stunned islanders by speaking English, Portuguese, Spanish, and French effortlessly.

The Multilingual Day 3 Bombshell

Standing 6 feet 1 inch (185 cm) tall, Zel maintains his footballer physique through daily training.

Standing 6'1" With Pro Athlete Conditioning

Zel stole Phoebe Jamieson on Day 3 and later dated both Phoebe and Amanda on Day 4.

Coupling Up With Phoebe Jamieson

Through football stipends, Gold Coast modelling contracts, and brand deals, Zel built an impressive 2026 fortune.

2026 Net Worth: $250K–$320K USD