Toby Alderweireld discusses mental health struggles during football career

Former professional footballer Toby Alderweireld has spoken candidly about the mental health struggles he faced during his career. In the television program ‘Therapie’ on VRT Canvas, the former Ajax and Tottenham Hotspur defender detailed how the demands of professional football conflicted with his personal life and fatherhood.

Alderweireld noted that the frequent travel required for club matches and international duty made it difficult to maintain a connection with his family. He shared a specific instance where he had to depart for work just one day after becoming a father for the second time, an experience he found mentally overwhelming. The pressure of being away from home for extended periods led him to seek professional help from a sports psychologist.

To manage his mental well-being and reduce his schedule, Alderweireld made the decision to retire from international football in 2023 after competing in three World Cups and two European Championships. Following his decision, he achieved domestic success with Royal Antwerp. He officially ended his active playing career in the summer of 2025 and currently works as a football analyst.