Manchester City and Belgium footballer Jeremy Doku has been criticized for his intention to leave the United States and return home to be with his wife, Shireen, for the birth of their first child next month. The criticism, which emerged over the weekend, has sparked a debate about the role of fathers during childbirth and the priorities of professional athletes.
Doku's Decision and Public Reaction
Doku's wife is due to give birth in the second week of July. If Belgium are still competing in the World Cup at that point, Doku would leave the tournament at the quarter-final stage. The backlash was ignited by France Pierron, a presenter on the French daily L'Equipe channel, who suggested that a father is "completely useless" at the time of a child's birth. "There are hundreds of footballers who would kill to be in your shoes. It might never happen again in your life," she said. "You're living out a childhood dream, yet you're going to walk away from it all to attend the birth of your child – a disgusting moment, if you'll pardon the expression, where the dad is completely useless."
Apology and Suspension
Pierron later apologized for her comments, writing on X: "I expressed a personal opinion, within the framework of a debate. These remarks commit only me and in no way reflect a collective position. I understand that they may have shocked, hurt, or wounded some of you, and I am sorry for that. My intention has never been to minimise the place or role of fathers with their partner and their child." Despite the apology, reports indicate she has been suspended. The damage, however, had already been done, as Doku faced a wave of criticism that many believe was unwarranted.
The Importance of Father's Presence
The incident raises questions about societal attitudes toward fatherhood. Many argue that being present for the birth of a child is a profound and irreplaceable experience. Darren Lewis, in an opinion piece, praised Doku's decision, stating: "Any man worth his salt knows football comes a distant second to being at the birth of your children." Lewis emphasized that the moment of birth is one that "lives with you for ever." He also noted that not every woman has the luxury of having her partner by her side, and not every father can be there due to circumstances beyond their control.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the debate underscores the tension between professional obligations and personal milestones. Doku, at 24, has a promising career ahead and may have other opportunities to play in World Cups. The birth of his first child, however, is a once-in-a-lifetime event. As Lewis concluded: "Go and be there for your wife and child, Jeremy. Embrace the moment. Hug your wife. Hold her hand. Be there when she sleeps. Be there when she wakes up. Even if you are completely useless. Just be there."
