Jérémy Doku departs 2026 World Cup to witness birth of first child

Belgian winger Jérémy Doku left the World Cup to be present for the birth of his first child, sparking a heated debate about priorities in professional sports.

Belgian footballer Jérémy Doku made headlines when he chose to temporarily leave the 2026 World Cup to be present for the birth of his first child. This decision sparked a significant debate about the balance between professional commitments and personal milestones.

The Belgian Football Association confirmed that Doku, after consulting with medical staff, was allowed to leave the team before their match against Iran to join his wife in London. The couple welcomed a baby boy named Praise on Monday, and all are reported to be doing well.

Doku’s decision and the medical context

Doku had already been ruled out of the match against Iran due to illness, which allowed him to travel without medical risk. The team’s doctor, Brahim Hacene stated that Doku received news before the match that the birth was imminent.

“Mother, father, and baby are all doing wonderfully,” Hacene added.

Doku is expected to rejoin his teammates in Seattle on Tuesday. The 24-year-old winger, who plays for Manchester City is regarded as one of the best young players in the Belgium squad. The team has had a solid but unspectacular start to their campaign, drawing both of their matches so far.

The controversy and public reaction

Doku’s decision to prioritize the birth of his child over the World Cup drew criticism from some quarters. A presenter on L’Équipe TV the channel of the historic French sports newspaper, questioned the decision, stating that fathers are “useless” at childbirth. She argued that hundreds of footballers would have killed to play in a World Cup, sparking an online storm.

The comments triggered a backlash, forcing L’Équipe to apologize and distance itself from the presenter’s remarks. The presenter has since been stood down from her show. Supporters of Doku, including fellow athletes and commentators, defended his decision, emphasizing the importance of being present for such a significant life event.

The broader implications

The debate highlights the ongoing discussion about the role of fathers in childbirth and the pressures faced by professional athletes. Doku’s decision to be present for the birth of his first child has been praised as a refreshing example of prioritizing family over professional obligations.

As the Belgium team prepares for their final group match against New Zealand on Friday, Doku’s absence and subsequent return will undoubtedly be a topic of interest. The team, which is rebuilding after their “golden generation” exited at the group stage in the 2026 World Cup, can assure themselves of progressing to the last 32 with a win.