Gregory van der Wiel

Nationality

Dutch

Date of Birth

03-02-1988

On the Pitch

Gregory van der Wiel built his career as one of the most modern right-backs of his generation. Coming through the Ajax academy, he became a key part of the team that dominated Dutch football in the late 2000s, winning multiple Eredivisie titles. Known for his athleticism, timing and attacking support from the back, Van der Wiel combined defensive discipline with the confidence to push forward.

His performances earned him a move to Paris Saint-Germain, where he won four Ligue 1 titles and competed regularly at Champions League level. At international level, Van der Wiel earned 46 caps for the Netherlands and played a crucial role in the 2010 World Cup campaign, helping the team reach the final. Across club and country, he was trusted in high-pressure environments and valued for his consistency on the biggest stages.

Off the Pitch

After stepping away from professional football, Gregory van der Wiel chose a quieter path. In recent years he largely stayed out of the spotlight, focusing on personal development and life beyond the game. Rather than rushing into new roles, he took time to reset and reassess his direction.

That period of silence is now turning into a new chapter. Van der Wiel has begun re-emerging with renewed focus and clarity. He is now a mindset and performance coach, sharing his personal experiences, and helping athletes turn pressure into power. Staying true to his personality, he is building momentum on his own terms, showing that growth after football does not always have to be loud to be meaningful.

Clothing Style

Extravagant

Playing Style

Wing-back

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/gregoryvanderwiel

Magazine Issue

#11 #22 #35