Thibaut Courtois says he hopes to retire at Real Madrid

Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois told reporters that his dream is to finish his career at Real Madrid, the club he has played for since 2018. He said the decision will depend on the club’s wishes, adding, “It’s my dream, obviously. When I was a child I dreamed of playing for Real.”

Courtois’ family background has been highlighted as a key influence on his development. His parents, Thierry and Gitte Courtois, are both former athletes from Belgium’s Flemish region—Thierry played football and Gitte was a volleyball player. They supported their son’s early training, encouraged his switch from volleyball to football around age twelve, and have continued to back him throughout his professional career.