Davy van den Berg: “That’s the kind of parent I want to be for my child”
Davy van den Berg has grown from a fiery, outspoken teenager into a grounded young man shaped by faith, family and football. His conversion to Islam, the birth of his daughter and the journey through Dutch football have all influenced how he sees himself today. In this interview, he reflects honestly on change, gratitude, and ambition.
Davy talks about how becoming more grounded changed his habits, personality and the way he carries himself. His conversion to Islam opened an entirely new perspective and sense of structure.
You officially became Muslim two years ago. How did that journey begin?
Davy van den Berg: “That’s right. In 2015 my mother passed away. After her death I went searching for answers; I wanted to know what comes after this life. In Islam I found structure and something to hold onto. It made me more purposeful. Before, I lived from day to day, but now I had a clear direction. Everything I did was focused on becoming the best person I could be. With my Islamic friends I shared many of the same norms and values, so I naturally gravitated towards them. My introduction to the religion began with reading a bit of the Quran and visiting a mosque. I mainly listened to the people around me and what they shared.”
At first you didn’t dare to be open about your faith. Did you face many prejudices?
“I never felt personally attacked, but I do notice that Islam is often portrayed negatively without people really diving into it. And it actually has many beautiful sides. Brotherhood, for example. You could see that clearly during Ramadan: young people helping the elderly stand up, people handing out food, or strangers supporting each other in different ways. In my experience, nothing is ever too much to ask from a Muslim. There’s enormous unity.”
How has your life changed since you converted?
“Enormously, but at the same time hardly. The changes have brought me closer to myself. Because I have more confidence, I can handle the less good moments and bigger setbacks better. People who don’t believe often ask themselves in unpleasant situations: why does something bad happen to a good person? I believe that person is being protected from something worse. It helps me put situations into perspective. For beautiful things I’m extra grateful. I’ve also become a bit calmer. I’m still the Davy from back then, but without the parties, alcohol and big mouth. In secondary school I was quite an annoying guy. I always had to have a comeback because it made me feel tough. I don’t need all that noise anymore.”
You once said you were quite a difficult kid. How does that version of you compare to who you are today?
“I was quite an annoying guy back then. I always needed to have a comeback to look tough. Those bells and whistles aren’t part of me anymore. I still feel like the same Davy, but I’ve let go of the need to show off. I’m calmer, more reflective, and no longer drawn to the lifestyle I once had.”
What role does your day-to-day lifestyle play in how you feel now?
“I’m calmer because I have direction now. Before, I lived day to day. Now everything I do is aimed at being the best possible person I can be. I focus on gratitude, discipline and surrounding myself with people who share my values. That has shaped my daily life and the way I present myself.”
Family, ambition and resilience have shaped Davy van den Berg’s path in football, as he explains.
Your father is described as one of your biggest supporters. Has your bond always been strong?
“From day one. When I left PSV after three and a half years, my father did everything to keep me sharp. He often left work half an hour early so he could drive with me to the forest and keep me fit. He would whistle on his fingers and I had to run sprint after sprint. My father really took care of me. Only when I got older did I realize how much my parents have done for me. I’m very grateful to them.”
You recently became a father yourself. What qualities from your mother do you hope to pass on?
“My mother always stood up for us, for me and my two sisters. Even when I was wrong, she supported me. At home she’d tell me off, of course. But in public she never went against me. I really appreciated that unconditional support. That’s the kind of parent I want to be for my child.”
Do you see yourself breaking through internationally in the long term?
“A hundred percent. If I didn’t have that goal, I wouldn’t even have started this. I’ve always said I’d like to play for FC Barcelona. It’s a beautiful club, the playing style appeals to me. And in Spain the weather is nice too, that helps.”
Ready for more?
Enjoyed reading about Davy van den Berg sharing his story in our exclusive interview? Read the full interview in our magazine issue 77.
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