Jeremy Doku becomes father after World Cup controversy. The Belgian winger temporarily left Belgium’s camp to be present for the birth of his son Praise in London. Mother and baby are doing well

Belgium winger Jeremy Doku has become a father for the first time, the Belgian Football Association announced on Monday, just days after his temporary departure from the 2026 FIFA World Cup sparked heated debate.

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The 24-year-old left the Red Devils’ camp in the United States to join his wife in London for the birth of their baby boy, named Praise.

The happy news was confirmed after Belgium’s goalless draw with Iran on Sunday.

“Jeremy received the news before yesterday’s match that the birth was imminent,” said the team’s doctor, Brahim Hacene. “As he had already been receiving the appropriate medical treatment for several days, he was able to fly without any medical risk to be with his family during this very special moment.”

Doku, who is expected to rejoin his teammates in Seattle on Tuesday, was already ruled out of the Iran fixture due to illness. Mother, father, and baby are reported to be doing wonderfully.

The decision to allow Doku to travel came after consultations with medical staff and followed the player’s earlier public statement that he wished to be present for the birth of his first child.

That stance drew sharp criticism from some quarters, most notably a French television presenter who claimed fathers were “useless” at childbirth.

The remarks triggered widespread backlash, forcing L’Equipe to apologise and remove the presenter from her show.

A talented and highly regarded member of Belgium’s rebuilding squad, Doku started in the team’s opening group game against Egypt but was substituted after failing to make a major impact.

Belgium have drawn both of their matches so far and need a victory against New Zealand on Friday to secure progression to the last 16.

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The episode highlights the growing conversation around balancing professional football commitments with family life during major tournaments, especially as younger players like Doku openly prioritise personal milestones.