Gakpo and Van der Bij began dating in December 2020, when Gakpo was still an emerging talent navigating the Eredivisie with PSV Eindhoven. The couple maintained a disciplined separation between his early sporting aspirations and their private life in Eindhoven. As Gakpo captained PSV and became one of Dutch football's most lethal attackers, Van der Bij remained a fixture at Philips Stadion, supporting his progression through the international ranks.
His breakout performance at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar accelerated a £37 million transfer to Liverpool FC in January 2023. Relocating to northwest England represented a significant lifestyle shift. While many young players struggle with the pressure of Merseyside expectations, club observers frequently credited Gakpo's steady home environment for his smooth integration into Jurgen Klopp's and later Arne Slot's squads.
The couple reached a major personal milestone in April 2024 with the birth of their first child, a son named Samuël Seth Gakpo. Their public announcements around the birth reflected their characteristic reserve: understated photographs, brief expressions of faith, and an explicit boundary safeguarding their infant's privacy from British paparazzi.
| Period | Milestone | Context & Professional Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 2019, 2021 | Avans Studies & Agency Booking | Van der Bij worked as a junior booker at Cachet Models while completing management coursework. |
| December 2020 | Relationship Begins | Began dating during Gakpo’s developmental seasons at PSV Eindhoven. |
| January 2023 | Merseyside Relocation | Relocated to England following Gakpo's £37M Premier League transfer to Liverpool FC. |
| April 2024 | Birth of Son, Samuël Seth | Welcomed their first child, maintaining strict privacy regarding his public visibility. |
| June 2026 | Tournament Bereavement Disclosed | Outlets confirmed the tragic loss of an unborn child during summer tournament competition. |
