Updated
Karrueche Tran has opened up about her relationship with Deion Sanders, revealing why she admires the Colorado football coach’s confidence following the loss of two toes.
During an appearance on The Pop Exchange Show on October 15, Tran admitted that she might struggle with the same situation, but Sanders hasn’t allowed his medical challenges to change his personality or outlook on life.
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“I would be embarrassed or feel not confident with having just three toes,” Tran confessed, acknowledging how difficult it could be for someone to adjust to such a significant physical change.
However, she praised Sanders for speaking openly about his experience instead of hiding it from others.
“He [Deion] didn’t allow this to bring him down or completely change who he is,” said Karrueche.
“I really truly commend him for that and for being vocal about it, too. I can imagine somebody or anybody; I would be embarrassed or feel not confident with having just three toes.”
Her comments followed a photo she shared showing the couple displaying his feet and newly fitted prosthetic toes.
Sanders’ medical problems began in September 2021, when he underwent surgery for a dislocated toe and an inflamed nerve. Complications involving blood clots and restricted circulation subsequently threatened his leg.
Doctors performed multiple procedures, eventually removing his left big toe and second toe in 2022. Amputation below the knee was also considered.
The ordeal kept Sanders in hospital for approximately a month, even as he remained connected to his coaching responsibilities at Jackson State.
Tran recalled the severity of the situation, explaining that his toes had turned black. Their loss also affected his balance, forcing him to adjust how he walked.
Prosthetic toes bring a fresh reason to laugh
Sanders received custom-made prosthetic toes in September 2026, marking another milestone in his recovery. His son, Deion Sanders Jr., shared footage of the moment on September 16, giving fans a look at the new additions.
The coach welcomed the change with humor, announcing that he was “10 toes down again!” He also described the prosthetics as a blessing and joked that they would help him fill his shoes properly and return to wearing his usual size 11.5 footwear.
Tran has been impressed by how realistic the replacements look, including their carefully designed toenails.
However, Sanders still needs time to adjust. His remaining toes have reportedly curved from gripping the ground, while the prosthetics sit straighter, creating a difference he must accommodate when walking.
Humor has become an important part of how the couple handles the experience.
Tran affectionately calls his foot “Little Foot” and regularly teases him about it. She explained that being able to laugh together has become a positive part of their relationship.
She also recalled the first time she noticed his foot while visiting his home. Sanders was lying in bed watching television, with his foot propped up and his toes visible.
Having never discussed the subject before, Tran didn’t know how to approach it.
“He obviously doesn’t care,” she said of that instance. “He’s not embarrassed.”