South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu is experiencing one of the most special and difficult moments of his life during the 2026 World Cup.
At 35 years old and playing in his fourth World Cup, he had to leave his wife in South Korea just days before she gave birth to join the national team. While he was preparing for the World Cup, his daughter was born, and he could only meet her through a video call.
The goalkeeper admitted feeling guilty for not having been with his family at such an important moment, although he said that his motivation is to have a great World Cup to give his wife and daughter something to celebrate.
“I want to get a good result and return to Korea with a great gift for them”, he said emotionally. And in the first match, he more than delivered.
Kim was the standout player in South Korea’s 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic, making several decisive saves in the final minutes to secure the win. A story that reflects the personal sacrifices many footballers must face to represent their country at football’s biggest stage.