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Belgium Star Jérémy Doku Celebrates Birth of Son After French Commentator's Remarks Spark Apology
Belgium forward Jérémy Doku celebrates the birth of his son, Praise, after French sports daily L’Equipe apologized for a commentator's critical remarks about his decision to leave the World Cup for the birth. Doku missed a match due to illness but was medically cleared to be with his wife in London.
Quick Facts
Who
Jérémy Doku
What
Birth of son
When
Monday
Where
Renton, Washington
- Birth of son
- Media apology
- Commentator criticism
- Medical clearance to travel
- Team training
Belgium forward Jérémy Doku is celebrating the birth of his son, Praise, on Monday, after French sports daily L’Equipe issued an apology for a commentator's critical remarks about his decision to leave the World Cup for the birth. Doku missed Belgium's 0-0 draw against Iran on Sunday due to a respiratory illness but was medically cleared to fly from Seattle to London to be with his wife during childbirth.
Belgium team doctor Brahim Hacene confirmed in a statement that Doku, who had been receiving appropriate medical treatment for several days, was accompanied by colleague Dr. Brecht De Coninck. "Everything went perfectly, and the mother, father, and baby are all doing wonderfully. Jérémy will rejoin the group tomorrow evening in Seattle," Hacene said. The Belgian soccer federation also extended its congratulations to the player.
The controversy arose after commentator France Pierron described childbirth as "a disgusting moment, excuse me, where the dad is useless" during an appearance on the television show "L’Equipe de Choc" on Friday. L’Equipe quickly distanced itself from the remarks, issuing an apology to Doku late Sunday and emphasizing that Pierron's comments did not reflect the organization's values.
Belgium captain Youri Tielemans expressed support for Doku, noting that he and other teammates sent congratulatory messages. "I think having a child is the most beautiful thing in the world that you can have, and being there, it’s more than normal as a dad, as a mom, obviously," Tielemans said. "But yeah, being there as a dad, for myself, I have three and it’s memories you can’t take back. So, yeah, very happy for him."
Why This Matters
This story highlights the tension between athlete professional obligations and family responsibilities, especially during high-profile events like the World Cup. It underscores media accountability—the swift apology from L'Equipe reflects public sensitivity to work-life balance issues. For readers, it shows how sports figures navigate personal milestones under scrutiny and how institutions can model respectful discourse.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 19, 2026
WireFrance Pierron appears on 'L’Equipe de Choc' and criticizes Doku's decision to leave World Cup for childbirth.
Jun 21, 2026
WireBelgium draws 0-0 with Iran; Doku misses match due to respiratory illness.
Jun 21, 2026
WireL’Equipe issues apology to Doku for Pierron's remarks.
Jun 22, 2026
WireDoku's son Praise is born; Belgian federation and teammates congratulate him.
Jun 23, 2026
WireDoku expected to rejoin Belgium squad in Seattle.