Belgium's Jérémy Doku welcomes first child after exiting camp during World Cup
Belgium winger Jérémy Doku temporarily left the 2026 World Cup to be with his wife, Shireen Raymond, for the birth of their son, Praise. The decision followed consultations between the Belgian Football Association and medical staff. Doku's exit sparked a debate in men's football and led to an apology from L'Equipe after a presenter's comments.
What changed
Doku has welcomed his first child and returned to the Belgium national team.
Live updates
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Jérémy Doku welcomes son Praise after leaving World Cup camp
confidence 95%Belgium winger Jérémy Doku temporarily left the 2026 World Cup to be with his wife, Shireen Raymond, for the birth of their son, Praise. The decision followed consultations between the Belgian Football Association and medical staff. Doku's exit sparked a debate in men's football and led to an apology from L'Equipe after a presenter's comments.
What's confirmed:
- Jérémy Doku and his wife Shireen Raymond welcomed their first child, a son named Praise.
- Doku left the Belgium national team camp after the association consulted with medical staff regarding the imminent birth.
- L'Equipe apologized to Doku following comments from a presenter.
- The 2026 men's World Cup is being held across Canada, Mexico, and the USA.
Still unconfirmed:
- A French presenter who called fathers useless at childbirth was stood down from her show.