Advertisement
In a candid interview with People, 41-year-old reality star Tom Sandoval opened up about his grueling experience on the show “Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test,” a rigorous program emulating military training and physical challenges. During particularly tough moments, Sandoval was on the verge of giving up when a few words of encouragement from his mother, Terri Green, became the pivotal factor that kept him going.
Describing the intense days on the show as incredibly challenging, Sandoval expressed his gratitude for his mother’s unwavering support during those difficult times. He admitted that he was close to quitting before receiving her message, which spurred him to continue pushing through the mental and physical strains he faced.
Sandoval clarified that monetary gain wasn’t the driving force behind his determination, as all participants on “Special Forces” receive the same compensation regardless of when they exit the show. Instead, his motivation stemmed from making his supporters and himself proud by advancing through the selection rounds.
Reflecting on a particularly demanding test on the show, he revealed his emotional state, mentioning how thoughts of his family and friends overwhelmed him. His mother’s heartfelt message, which viewers witnessed on a recent episode, brought tears to his eyes, exemplifying the depth of his emotional response.
The reality star’s participation in the competitive reality series followed public scrutiny after his involvement in a cheating scandal with Rachel “Raquel” Leviss, leading to the end of his nine-year relationship with Ariana Madix. Sandoval candidly addressed the affair on the show, acknowledging the backlash and negative impact on his reputation, stating that people’s perceptions shifted drastically after the scandal emerged.
Describing his decision to join “Special Forces,” Sandoval clarified that it wasn’t about running away but rather holding himself accountable. He expressed a belief that he deserved the challenges presented by the show as a form of self-punishment.
“Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test Season 2” is available for streaming on Hulu, showcasing Sandoval’s journey and his resilience through the program’s demanding trials.