Netherlands football star Cody Gakpo and his partner Noa van der Bi have announced the heartbreaking loss of their unborn son, Elijah Raphael Gakpo. Van der Bi shared a photo on social media of her hand clasped with Gakpo's over an empty baby swaddle, accompanied by a devastating message.
Devastating announcement
“With broken hearts, we share the devastating news that our baby boy passed away during pregnancy,” van der Bi wrote. “Thank you for your love and support. Elijah Raphael Gakpo. Forever loved. Forever our son.”
Gakpo, who has scored two goals at the ongoing FIFA World Cup, added: “This is an incredibly difficult time for our family. We kindly ask for our privacy and space. Thank you for your understanding.”
A sign from God
Van der Bi described a poignant moment during their grieving process. “We went to church to light a candle. Afterward, we walked to the church playground with our 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.”
Just last month, on May 30, the couple had shared their joy about expecting a second child, posting: “Our little family is growing. We can't wait to meet you.”
World Cup performance
Gakpo has been a key player for the Netherlands during the group stage, scoring twice in their 5-1 victory over Sweden. The Dutch team is set to face Morocco in the round of 32 on Tuesday (AEST).
