Netherlands World Cup Star Cody Gakpo Asks for Privacy After the Tragic Loss of His Unborn Son

Liverpool and Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo has asked for privacy and space following the heartbreaking loss of his unborn son.

The 27-year-old footballer and his partner, model Noa van der Bij, were expecting their second child together, with the baby due in October.

On Saturday, Van der Bij shared the sad news on social media, posting a picture of the couple holding hands over a blanket and a knitted hat.

“With broken hearts, we share the devastating news that our baby boy passed away during pregnancy,” she wrote. “Thank you for your love and support. Elijah Raphael Gakpo. Forever loved. Forever our son.”

She later shared another emotional message, revealing that the family had visited a church to light a candle in memory of their son.

“We went to church to light a candle. Afterwards, we walked to the church playground with our son Samuel,” she wrote. “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.”

Gakpo, who is currently representing the Netherlands at the FIFA World Cup, also released a brief statement.

“This is an incredibly difficult time for our family,” he wrote. “We kindly ask for our privacy and space. Thank you for your understanding.”

Despite the personal tragedy, Gakpo has featured in all three of the Netherlands’ World Cup group matches, scoring twice against Sweden to help his country reach the knockout stages.

The Netherlands will face Morocco in the round of 32 on Tuesday in Mexico.