'I Won’t Miss My First Child’s Birth For The World Cup'

‘I Won’t Miss My First Child’s Birth For The World Cup’ – Doku
His comments sparked debate over family and football commitments.
Players’ groups backed his decision to prioritise family.

Belgium winger Jeremy Doku has revealed that he would leave the national team’s FIFA World Cup camp to be present for the birth of his first child, even if Belgium remain in the tournament.

Doku, 24, whose wife Shireen is expected to give birth next month, said missing such a significant family moment would be difficult despite the demands of professional football.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that his position sparked debate after L’Equipe presenter France Pierron criticised the idea, claiming a father is “completely useless” during childbirth and describing the experience as a “disgusting moment.”

The comments drew widespread criticism, prompting L’Equipe to issue an apology. The publication said the remarks were “very far removed” from its values. Pierron also apologised, while reports in France indicated she would not appear on her programme on Monday.

Doku played 86 minutes in Belgium’s opening 1-1 draw against Egypt in Group G but missed the team’s subsequent goalless draw with Iran due to illness.

With Shireen expected to give birth during the second week of July, the timing could coincide with Belgium’s participation in the quarter-finals if the team progresses that far in the competition.

“If you ask me what I want, my answer is that nobody wants to miss the birth of their first child,” Doku told Reuters.

“But I also know that football involves many other considerations. I know the federation supports its players and understands their situations. We’ll see what we can do.”

England striker Ollie Watkins backed Doku’s stance, saying family should not be overlooked during major career commitments.

“I think someone labelled it disgusting and I think for a start that’s not a way to label a birth,” Watkins said.

“I’ve seen what my wife had to go through and that was quite smooth sailing but I know family members and friends who haven’t had it that way.

“It only happens once, welcoming your first child to the world, and it is a blessing. There are a lot of times when you’re away from family and friends during the season and it’s very difficult, so to miss that would be tough and I see where he’s coming from.”

The Professional Footballers’ Association also supported Doku, stating that players should not be forced to choose between major family events and professional responsibilities.

“While every situation is different, we believe players should be supported in balancing their professional responsibilities with important life events,” a PFA spokesperson said.

“Supporting players as people, not just athletes, is an important part of creating a healthy professional working environment.”

The Fatherhood Institute echoed the sentiment, arguing that footballers should not be expected to place entertainment above family obligations.

“It makes me think of gladiators in the Colosseum,” deputy chief executive Jeremy Davies said.