(foto: Uradni FB/TW/IG profil igralca)
Virgil van Dijk, the imposing figure set to captain the Netherlands in their crucial Euro 2024 match against France, is not only a force to be reckoned with on the football field but also leads an intriguing life off the pitch.
As he prepares for the match in Leipzig on June 21, van Dijk's family will be there to support him, a testament to the close-knit nature of his personal life.
A Humble Beginning
Born in Breda, in the south of the Netherlands, Virgil van Dijk's journey to football stardom began early. His parents, Ron van Dijk and Hellen Chin Fo Sieeuw, supported his passion for the sport. Despite initial setbacks, including being released by Willem II as a child for not making the first team, van Dijk's perseverance saw him flourish at FC Groningen. This pivotal move silenced early critics and set the stage for his ascent to the national youth team.
Rise to Prominence
Van Dijk's career took a significant leap when he joined Celtic, followed by Southampton, where his performances caught the eye of Liverpool. In 2018, he was signed by Liverpool for a record-breaking £75 million, making him the world’s most expensive defender at the time. That same year, he was named captain of the Netherlands national team, solidifying his status as a top-tier footballer.
Personal Life and Family
Off the pitch, van Dijk's life is marked by his strong family bonds. He met his wife, Rike Nooitgedagt, during their teenage years in Breda. The couple married in 2017, and Rike has been a steadfast supporter of his career, having given up her job as a fashion sales manager to follow him across Europe. They are proud parents to four children: daughters Nila, Jadi, and Noa, and son Mase. Rike and their children are often seen cheering him on during matches, underscoring their supportive presence in his life.
The Man Behind the Jersey
Known for his imposing presence on the field, van Dijk also carries personal stories and symbols. He sports a full sleeve tattoo on his left arm, featuring intricate designs like a clock, roses, and an eye, which fans seldom see due to his preference for long sleeves during matches. These tattoos, however, make appearances in his modeling campaigns and social media posts.
Van Dijk’s decision to use only his first name on his jersey has piqued interest. This break from tradition is linked to a personal family matter, as he explained: "Nobody really knows the reason. What exactly happened is private and I won't tell the media. It's nobody's business. But my father is no longer in my life."
A Life of Success and Wealth
Virgil van Dijk’s success has translated into substantial wealth. Alongside his weekly football wage of £220,000, he has lucrative sponsorship deals with brands like Heineken and Nike. He has also been featured in a Calvin Klein ad campaign and was the cover star of EA Sports' FIFA 20. As of March 2024, his net worth was estimated at around $46 million (£39 million).
Supporting Role
Despite their preference for privacy, the van Dijk family occasionally shares glimpses of their life together on social media. Rike’s affectionate posts often highlight the couple’s deep bond. She once captioned a photo, “I love you not only for who you are but for who I am when I’m with you.”
As van Dijk leads the Netherlands in Euro 2024, his family remains his steadfast support system, a testament to the strong personal foundations that underpin his professional success. Their presence at the Euros in Germany is a visible reminder of the love and support that drives him, both on and off the pitch.