Meet Luka Modrić’s Parents: Radojka Modrić and Stipe Modrić

Luka Modrić, the iconic Croatian footballer and Real Madrid captain, is celebrated globally for his extraordinary talent, vision, and leadership.

Born on September 9, 1985, in Zadar, then part of SR Croatia within Yugoslavia, Luka’s early life was marked by the harsh realities of war. He spent his childhood in the village of Modrići during the Croatian War of Independence.

In 1991, at the age of six, tragedy struck when his grandfather, also named Luka, was killed by Serb rebels, and the family home was destroyed. Forced to flee, the Modrić family became refugees, eventually settling in Zadar, where they lived in modest conditions in hotels like Kolovare and Iž, often without basic amenities amidst ongoing conflict.

He honed his skills in the parking lots of Zadar’s hotels, showing early signs of the brilliance that would define his career. His parents, Radojka Modrić (née Dopuđ), a former textile worker from Kruševo near Obrovac, and Stipe Modrić, a military mechanic from Modrići near Zaton Obrovački, played a crucial role in nurturing his dream. Both came from humble, working-class backgrounds and supported Luka’s football aspirations despite enduring financial hardship and the emotional toll of war.

Luka is of Croatian ethnicity and a devout Roman Catholic. He frequently attends church and celebrates traditional Christian holidays such as Christmas and Easter. While little is publicly known about his formal education, it is evident that his focus shifted to football from a young age. He trained at a sports academy in Zadar, prioritizing his athletic development over academic pursuits.

In his personal life, Luka married Vanja Bosnić in May 2010 in Zagreb after four years of dating. Vanja, a former employee at a sports agency, has been a steadfast supporter of Luka’s career. Together, they have three children: Ivano Modrić (born June 6, 2010), Ema Modrić (born April 25, 2013), and Sofia Modrić (born October 2, 2017).

Radojka Modrić

Radojka Modrić, a former textile worker, is widely regarded as the emotional cornerstone of the Modrić family. Her resilience and determination were instrumental during the difficult years of the Croatian War of Independence.

As Luka Modrić‘s mother, she endured profound hardships—including the tragic loss of her father-in-law and the destruction of their home—yet remained a steady source of strength, working tirelessly to create a sense of stability for her children: Luka, the eldest, and his two younger sisters, Jasmina Modrić and Diora Modrić.

From an early age, Radojka recognized Luka’s passion for football and supported him wholeheartedly, even as the family faced displacement and financial strain. She became his most devoted supporter, attending matches and offering constant encouragement.

Her presence on the sidelines, often alongside her husband Stipe, served as a powerful motivator for Luka. Through her actions and words, Radojka instilled in him the values of humility, perseverance, and dedication—principles that continue to shape his demeanor and discipline both on and off the pitch. Luka has frequently credited his mother’s support and guidance for helping him remain grounded and true to his roots.

Radojka’s story mirrors the experiences of many Croatian families who endured the turmoil of the 1990s. Her ability to navigate the chaos of war while nurturing her family’s dreams speaks volumes about her inner strength and character.

Although her professional background as a material specialist is less documented, her life’s work has always centered around her family. While her estimated net worth is modest—around $200,000—her true value lies in the emotional support and life lessons she imparted, which have been instrumental in shaping Luka Modrić’s extraordinary journey.

Stipe Modrić

Stipe Modrić, a former military mechanic, played an essential role in guiding his family through the hardships of war and beyond. During the Croatian War of Independence, he served as a technician for the Croatian Army, repairing military vehicles under strenuous and often dangerous conditions.

Despite the demands of his job and the ongoing conflict, Stipe remained committed to his family’s well-being. He worked long hours and took on additional jobs to ensure his son Luka could pursue his passion for football. Whether it meant buying equipment or covering training fees, he did whatever it took—often at the expense of his own rest—to support Luka’s budding career.

Stipe’s support wasn’t limited to financial contributions; he was a steady presence at Luka’s matches, his pride unmistakable as he cheered from the sidelines. This deep father-son bond was movingly highlighted during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, when Luka described embracing his father after a match as “emotional beyond words.”

Stipe’s sacrifices and belief in Luka’s potential played a pivotal role in the family’s journey from post-war hardship to middle-class stability, as Luka’s football career flourished.

A native of the hamlet of Modrići, Stipe’s background and experiences during the war forged in him a deep resilience and tireless work ethic. He helped shield Luka from the burdens of their difficult circumstances, giving him the freedom to focus on developing his talent—even when others doubted him due to his small stature.