Crystal Palace Women have a headline‑grabbing story as midfielder Justine Vanhaevermaet hits the training ground seven months pregnant, proving the squad’s dedication ahead of the new WSL campaign. The 34‑year‑old Belgian international, due in September, showed up with her baby bump visible, joining teammates in a full‑intensity session.
What happened?
The club posted a photo on X on July 22, 2026, captioning it “Seven months pregnant and still putting the work in.” Vanhaevermaet, who signed last summer, was seen juggling the ball and executing keep‑y‑uppy drills, a routine that mirrors her pre‑pregnancy fitness regime. Her fiancé, physiotherapist Thomas De Jonghe, was also on hand, underscoring the professional support surrounding her.
Why it matters for Crystal Palace Women
Beyond the human‑interest angle, Vanhaevermaet’s presence signals depth in the squad as the team prepares for a season where they sit 15th in the Premier League with 45 points, 11‑12‑15 from 38 games and a recent LDLDL form. Her experience helped the club secure promotion back to the WSL last year, and her leadership now extends to setting a health‑focused example for younger players. The club’s goal tally sits at 41 scored and 51 conceded, a -10 goal difference, highlighting the need for every player to contribute both on and off the pitch.
How does pregnancy affect performance?
Medical guidance from the NHS advises pregnant athletes to maintain normal activity levels, provided they feel comfortable. The advice stresses avoiding exhaustion and listening to maternity teams. While football carries a risk of falls or abdominal impacts, active women often experience smoother labour and fewer complications. Vanhaevermaet’s routine mirrors that of US star Alex Morgan, who trained similarly in 2020, showing a precedent for elite athletes.
What comes next for the squad?
Crystal Palace Women will continue pre‑season work while monitoring Vanhaevermaet’s health. The club also celebrates teammate Josie Green, who welcomed a daughter on Thursday, adding another new mother to the roster. With the WSL season looming, the squad aims to improve on a -10 goal difference and climb the table, still 40 points behind leaders Arsenal. Fans can expect more updates as the pregnancy progresses and the team finalises its line‑up for the opening fixtures.
Contextual snapshot
As of the final 2025 table, Crystal Palace Women sit 15th in the Premier League with 45 points, a record of 11 wins, 12 draws, and 15 losses from 38 games, and a recent form of LDLDL. Their season tally stands at 41 goals for and 51 against, leaving them 40 points adrift of Arsenal at the top of the league.
