Rafael Struick: ”That inspires me to always look my best.”
At just seventeen, Rafael Struick made the leap from amateur football to the professional game. Now, four years later, the 21-year-old forward has settled in the Indonesian league, the same competition where he plays his internationals for the national team. Since making his debut for Indonesia, his Instagram following has skyrocketed to 3.7 million. In this exclusive interview, the Dewa United Banten FC striker opens up about his evolving style, the cultural connection he’s embraced, and how life between two worlds has shaped him.
What’s it like to play in Indonesia and be treated like a star?
Rafael Struick: “It’s a dream and something truly special. Here, you’re not just a player, you’re part of the people. Fans recognise you everywhere, they ask for photos, they shower you with love. In the Netherlands, I could still do my grocery shopping without anyone batting an eye. Here, it’s a different world entirely.”
You were born in the Netherlands, but your roots are in Indonesia. How has that shaped you?
“My grandparents are from Indonesia, but I was born and raised in the Netherlands. As a kid, I had a few holidays here and of course my grandmother’s nasi goreng, but I didn’t really know the culture deeply. Since joining the national team, that’s completely changed. I come here often now, and it genuinely feels like home. The people, the culture, the food, it’s something I’m incredibly proud to represent.”
Has living in Indonesia influenced your fashion?
“Definitely. In Indonesia, you can be bold with colours and patterns, and I love that. I mix that energy with my own preference for clean, casual looks. Think good jeans, a relaxed tee, but with one standout piece, a printed jacket, fresh sneakers, or the right accessories to tie it all together.”
How would you describe your personal style?
“A mix of casual comfort and statement details. I don’t need to be covered head-to-toe in designer, but I do care about quality. The fit, the fabric, the vibe, that’s what matters. I like outfits that make me feel confident, whether I’m walking through Jakarta or going out for dinner in The Hague.”
Who inspires you when it comes to style?
“I look up to players like Son Heung-min. He’s always sharp, but never over the top. Since being in Indonesia, I’ve also discovered local designers doing amazing work, sometimes mixing traditional patterns into modern streetwear. That’s something I’d love to explore more.”
Any fashion no-gos?
“Too many logos. If a shirt is just one giant brand name, it’s not for me. I prefer pieces that speak for themselves without shouting.”
How has moving to Indonesia changed your day-to-day life?
“Life here is more about enjoying the moment. After training, I often go out to eat with teammates, sometimes at traditional warungs, sometimes somewhere super modern. People here take pride in how they present themselves, even off the pitch. That inspires me to always look my best. And honestly, with so many fans you bump into, you want to represent yourself well.”
What’s next for you?
“I want to keep growing, as a player and as a person. On the pitch, I want to be a key figure for Dewa United and the national team. Off the pitch, I want to keep building my connection to Indonesian culture and maybe even the fashion world. One day, I’d love to launch my own clothing line that blends the two worlds I live in.”
Rafael Struick is more than just a footballer. In Indonesia, he’s a rising style icon and a cultural ambassador. Between the calm of the Netherlands and the energy of Jakarta, he’s found his balance, always stylish, always himself.
Ready for more?
Want to read more? Check out the exclusive interview with Danilo Pereira.
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