Liverpool and Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo has publicly asked for “privacy and space” following the tragic loss of his unborn son during pregnancy.
His partner, model Noa van der Bij, broke the devastating news on Saturday, sharing the heartbreaking announcement with the couple’s followers on social media.
The couple had been expecting their second child together, with the baby originally due to arrive in October of this year.
Van der Bij posted a deeply personal image on social media showing the pair holding hands over a blanket and a small knitted hat.
“With broken hearts, we share the devastating news that our baby boy passed away during pregnancy,” she wrote in the emotional post.
The couple named their son Elijah Raphael Gakpo, with Van der Bij adding: “Forever loved. Forever our son.”
In a further post, Van der Bij described visiting a church and lighting a candle, before taking a walk to the church playground with the couple’s other son, Samuel.
“There was only one other child there. His name was Elijah. There could not have been a more beautiful sign from God. He reminded us that our little boy is never far away,” she wrote.
Gakpo, who is currently away on World Cup duty with the Netherlands, shared his own message asking for understanding from supporters and the wider public during this painful period.
“This is an incredibly difficult time for our family. We kindly ask for our privacy and space. Thank you for your understanding,” the 27-year-old wrote.
Despite navigating this deeply personal tragedy, Gakpo has started all three of the Netherlands’ World Cup group stage matches, helping his country advance to the knockout rounds.
The Liverpool forward scored twice against Sweden during the group stage, demonstrating his importance to the Netherlands’ campaign in North America.
The Netherlands are scheduled to face Morocco in the last 32 on Tuesday, with kick-off set for 02:00 BST in Mexico.
The thoughts of the entire football community will be with Gakpo, Van der Bij, and their son Samuel as they navigate this unimaginably difficult time together.
