Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo and his partner Noa van der Bij have announced the heartbreaking death of their unborn son, Elijah Raphael Gakpo, during pregnancy. The couple, who already have a son named Samuel born in 2024, had shared the joyful news of their second pregnancy in May, with the baby due in October.
Devastating Announcement
In a series of Instagram stories on Saturday, Van der Bij revealed the devastating miscarriage. The statement read: "With broken hearts, we share the devastating news that our baby boy passed away during pregnancy. Thank you for your love and support. Elijah Raphael Gakpo. Forever loved. Forever our son."
She added: "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."
Context and Support
The precise timing of the loss remains unclear. Van der Bij had been active on social media throughout the summer, sharing a carousel of photographs on Instagram in early June, resting a drink on her bump, and later posting pictures from Texas during the World Cup. Gakpo is currently representing the Netherlands at the World Cup, while Van der Bij travelled to the United States to support him.
Dutch publication De Telegraaf reported that Gakpo did not get off the team bus for training four days ago, before being transported separately by car. At the time, the Dutch football association (KNVB) said he was not late but there was a valid explanation for it.
Outpouring of Sympathy
Liverpool fans on social media rallied behind the forward and his partner. One account posted: "Sending our thoughts, love and condolences to Cody Gakpo and his family following the heartbreaking news of the loss of their baby boy. YNWA." The post, viewed more than 213,000 times on X (formerly Twitter), prompted an outpouring of sympathy.
Another user wrote: "No words for this. Just so, so sorry for Cody and his family. This is the kind of pain that puts everything else into perspective. We're with you, Cody. All the love in the world. Take all the time you need. YNWA."
Gakpo's World Cup Performance
Gakpo has scored twice for the Netherlands at this summer's World Cup under Ronald Koeman's guidance, maintaining his impressive international record.
