As Netherlands captain Virgil Van Dijk prepares for the Euro 2024 semi-final clash against England, football fans are eager to learn more about the life of the Liverpool star beyond the pitch. While Van Dijk’s dominance in defense is well-documented, his personal life is equally inspiring, especially his long-standing relationship with his wife, Rike Nooitgedagt.
Who is Rike Nooitgedagt?
Rike Nooitgedagt is best known as the childhood sweetheart and now wife of Virgil Van Dijk. Unlike many partners of high-profile footballers, Rike has deliberately stayed away from the limelight. She maintains no public social media presence and prefers to keep her private life away from the media’s glare.
Before her life alongside the Dutch football star, Rike had a promising career in fashion. She worked as a fashion sales manager in the Netherlands, where she successfully marketed and sold various brands to stores across the country. However, in 2013, when Van Dijk received an offer to play for Scottish club Celtic, she made a life-changing decision. She gave up her career to support her partner’s football journey, a move that has led them across multiple countries and leagues.
Virgil Van Dijk and Rike Nooitgedagt: A Love Story from Childhood
Van Dijk and Nooitgedagt both hail from Breda, Netherlands. Their love story began when they were teenagers, growing up together in their hometown. Over the years, they have remained inseparable, standing by each other through the highs and lows of life and football.
Their relationship saw significant milestones as Van Dijk’s career progressed. From his early days at Willem II and FC Groningen, to his breakthrough at Celtic and then Southampton, Rike has been his steadfast supporter. When the Dutch defender made a record-breaking £75 million move to Liverpool in 2018, she once again embraced the challenges that came with the transition.
When Did Virgil Van Dijk and Rike Nooitgedagt Get Married?
The couple made their union official in 2017 when they tied the knot. At the time, Van Dijk was playing for Southampton, and his reputation as one of the most promising defenders in football was rapidly growing.
Since their marriage, the pair has built a strong family unit, raising their children while Van Dijk cements his legacy in football. Throughout his journey, Rike has remained his unwavering pillar of support, opting to stay out of the public eye while focusing on their family life.
Family Life: Do Van Dijk and Rike Nooitgedagt Have Children?
Virgil Van Dijk and Rike Nooitgedagt are proud parents to two children. Their first child, a daughter, was born in 2014. The birth of their daughter was uniquely timed, as Rike was due to give birth at the same time Van Dijk was set to receive his first-ever senior international call-up. Determined not to miss the special moment, Van Dijk arranged for the birth to be induced, ensuring he could be present for his daughter’s arrival.
The couple welcomed their second daughter, Jadi, in 2016. Today, they reside in Liverpool, where Van Dijk is a key player for the Premier League club. Despite his demanding football career, he has often spoken about the importance of family, making it clear that his wife and children are his greatest source of strength and motivation.
Van Dijk’s Net Worth and Financial Success
Virgil Van Dijk’s career has seen him rise to become one of the highest-paid defenders in world football. With an estimated net worth of around $50 million (£39 million) as of 2024, the Dutch star has secured financial success through lucrative contracts, endorsements, and sponsorships. His move to Liverpool in 2018 was a defining moment, making him the most expensive defender in football history at the time.
Aside from his Liverpool contract, Van Dijk has signed major endorsement deals with brands such as Nike, EA Sports, and JBL, further boosting his financial status. His consistent performances at the club and international levels ensure he remains one of football’s most marketable athletes.
Van Dijk and Rike Nooitgedagt’s Private Yet Strong Relationship
Despite being in the public eye, the couple has kept their relationship grounded. Rike’s decision to stay away from social media and media appearances speaks volumes about their approach to fame and personal life. Unlike many football WAGs, she has chosen to prioritize her family over the allure of social media influence or public appearances.
Van Dijk has also expressed his love and admiration for Rike on several occasions. In one instance, he posted a heartfelt tribute to her, writing, “You are the love of my life!” Similarly, Rike has shared glimpses of their relationship in rare moments, once saying, “I love you not only for who you are but for who I am when I’m with you.”
Support from Max Verstappen Ahead of Euro 2024 Semi-Final
As Van Dijk prepares to lead the Netherlands against England in the Euro 2024 semi-final, he has received support from a fellow Dutch sportsman, Max Verstappen. The Formula 1 champion has backed his friend, recognizing the importance of the upcoming clash in Dortmund.
Van Dijk will be up against England captain Harry Kane, a striker who has a notable record against him. Kane, formerly of Tottenham Hotspur, has netted six goals in 10 appearances against Van Dijk, setting the stage for an intense battle between the two leaders.