The Crystal Palace midfielder continues her pre-season preparations despite expecting a baby in September
Crystal Palace midfielder Justine Vanhaevermaet amazed fans by joining pre-season training on July 24, 2026, while seven months pregnant. The 34-year-old Belgium international showed impressive skills alongside teammates as the club prepares for the Women’s Super League following their recent promotion.
Crystal Palace women’s star Justine Vanhaevermaet has sparked massive praise online. The midfielder joined her teammates for intense pre-season training on July 24, 2026. She took to the pitch despite being seven months pregnant with her first child.
The south London club released footage of the session to highlight her dedication. She displayed sharp ball-juggling skills during the drills, prompting fans to celebrate her work rate.
”Seven months pregnant and still putting the work in,” Crystal Palace posted on X.
Stepping up for the WSL
Vanhaevermaet played a huge role for Palace last season. She joined the team last summer and helped them win promotion to the Women’s Super League. Now, she remains strictly focused on keeping her fitness levels high.
The 34-year-old Belgium international expects her baby in September with her fiancé, physiotherapist Thomas De Jonghe. Her ongoing training highlights her elite athletic mindset ahead of the new campaign.
Balancing motherhood and football
Modern football continues to embrace working mothers at the highest level. Players receive better medical backing from their clubs during pregnancy. Palace clearly supports their star player as she navigates this journey.
Vanhaevermaet will likely step back from full contact drills as her due date approaches. Still, her strong presence in camp provides a massive morale boost for the newly promoted squad.
