Achraf Hakimi, the dynamic right-back and captain of the Morocco national football team, is currently leading his country's campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While football fans around the world focus on his blistering runs down the flank and his crucial goals, many are also curious about his personal life, particularly his ex-wife, Hiba Abouk. Born in Tunisia and raised in Spain, Hiba Abouk is an accomplished actress who has captivated audiences with her performances in popular television dramas. Her relationship with Hakimi has been a subject of constant media attention, and despite their separation, the former couple remains bound together by their two sons.
Who is Hiba Abouk?
Hiba Abouk was born on October 30, 1986, in Tunis, Tunisia, to a Spanish mother and a Tunisian father. She moved to Madrid, Spain, with her family at a young age and grew up in the multicultural environment of the Spanish capital. Her passion for acting led her to study at the Escuela de Actores de Madrid, and she soon began her career in Spanish television. She initially appeared in minor roles in series like El internado and La pecera de Eva, but her big break came with the role of Fátima in the hit TV series El Príncipe, which aired from 2014 to 2016. In the show, she played the love interest of a police officer involved in the conflict between the Spanish police and drug traffickers in Ceuta. Her performance was praised for its depth and authenticity, earning her a loyal fanbase. Abouk also starred in other series such as Con el tiempo and Déjate llevar, further establishing her as a rising star in the Spanish entertainment industry.
The Relationship Between Hiba Abouk and Achraf Hakimi
Achraf Hakimi and Hiba Abouk reportedly began dating in 2018, when Hakimi was playing for Borussia Dortmund in the German Bundesliga. The relationship was kept relatively private initially, but they soon became one of the most talked-about couples in the world of football and entertainment. In 2020, they welcomed their first son, Amin, and shortly after, they got married in a private ceremony. Hakimi and Abouk's marriage seemed idyllic from the outside, with the couple often posting glimpses of their family life on social media. In February 2023, they welcomed their second son. However, just a few months later, reports emerged that the marriage was in trouble. In April 2023, Spanish media reported that Hiba Abouk had made the decision to separate from Hakimi, citing allegations of infidelity on the part of the footballer. Abouk filed for divorce, seeking custody of their two children. The legal proceedings were handled amicably, with the couple agreeing to joint custody and co-parenting arrangements. Since the separation, both have remained focused on their respective careers and their children's well-being.
Achraf Hakimi's Rise to Football Stardom
To understand the full context of this relationship, one must appreciate Achraf Hakimi's remarkable journey in football. Born on November 4, 1998, in Madrid to Moroccan parents, Hakimi joined Real Madrid's youth academy at the age of eight. He progressed through the ranks and made his first-team debut in 2017. However, it was during his two-year loan spell at Borussia Dortmund that he truly emerged as a top-class right-back. His blistering pace, dribbling ability, and eye for goal made him one of the most exciting full-backs in Europe. After his time in Germany, he moved to Inter Milan, where he won the Serie A title in the 2020-21 season. His performances attracted the attention of Paris Saint-Germain, who signed him in 2021 for a fee in the region of €60 million. At PSG, Hakimi continued to excel, forming a formidable partnership with players like Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi. On the international stage, Hakimi chose to represent Morocco, the country of his parents, rather than Spain. He made his debut for the Atlas Lions in 2016 and quickly became a key player. During the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, Hakimi was instrumental in Morocco's historic run to the semi-finals, where they became the first African and Arab nation to reach that stage. His performances earned him widespread acclaim, and he was named the captain of the national team shortly after the tournament. Under his leadership, Morocco has high hopes for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Life After the Divorce: Focus on Children and Careers
In the aftermath of their separation, both Achraf Hakimi and Hiba Abouk have maintained a respectful distance while prioritizing their children. Abouk has largely retreated from the public eye, focusing on her acting career and her role as a mother. She has been involved in new projects, including a lead role in a Spanish drama series set to premiere in 2024. Abouk has also been active on social media, often sharing pictures of her sons and advocating for privacy. Hakimi, meanwhile, has remained focused on football. He continues to be a pivotal figure for PSG and the Moroccan national team. In the 2023-24 season, he helped PSG secure another Ligue 1 title and contributed crucial goals and assists. His leadership on and off the pitch has earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches. Despite the end of their marriage, Hakimi and Abouk have shown that they can put their differences aside for the sake of their children. They are often seen spending time together with their sons, ensuring that the family remains united even after divorce.
Morocco's World Cup 2026 Campaign
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the first to feature 48 teams and will be hosted across three nations: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Morocco's qualification campaign began in November 2023, with the team drawn into a group featuring Zambia, Tanzania, and Niger. Under Hakimi's captaincy, Morocco started strong with convincing wins. The team's performance in the 2022 World Cup has raised expectations for 2026, with fans hoping for another deep run. Hakimi's leadership is crucial to the team's success. His experience playing at the highest level in Europe, combined with his ability to inspire his teammates, makes him an ideal captain. The Moroccan federation has invested heavily in the development of the national team, and the squad boasts several talented players, including Hakim Ziyech, Sofyan Amrabat, and Noussair Mazraoui. With the support of the passionate Moroccan fans around the world, the team is determined to make an even greater impact in 2026. For Hakimi, the tournament represents an opportunity to cement his legacy as one of the greatest Moroccan footballers of all time.
Hiba Abouk's Acting Legacy
While Hiba Abouk is known to many as the ex-wife of a famous footballer, she has carved out her own identity in the entertainment industry. Her acting credits include a mix of television and film projects. One of her most memorable roles was in the television series El Príncipe, which tackled issues of terrorism, love, and identity in a border city. Her portrayal of Fátima was both nuanced and compelling. She also appeared in the comedy series Déjate llevar and the drama Con el tiempo. Abouk has expressed interest in exploring more international projects, including those in the Arab world. Her dual heritage gives her a unique perspective that she brings to her roles. In interviews, she has emphasized the importance of representation for Arab and North African actors in Western media. Despite the challenges of her personal life, Abouk continues to pursue her passion for acting with determination. Her talent and resilience have earned her a loyal following, and she remains a prominent figure in Spanish television.
The Impact of Fame on Personal Relationships
The intense scrutiny that comes with being in the public eye can strain any relationship, and the marriage of Hakimi and Abouk was no exception. Constant media attention, rumors, and the demands of their respective careers took a toll. Hakimi's high-profile status as a footballer for PSG and the Moroccan national team meant that his every move was analyzed. Abouk, too, faced public interest in her personal life. The couple's separation was widely covered in the media, with many speculating about the reasons behind the split. Despite the challenges, both have handled the situation with dignity. They have maintained a cordial relationship for the sake of their children, avoiding public battles. This maturity has been praised by fans and commentators alike. Their story serves as a reminder that even in the glamorous world of sports and entertainment, relationships require work and privacy.
Looking Ahead: What's Next for Hakimi and Abouk?
For Achraf Hakimi, the immediate focus is on the rest of the 2023-24 season with PSG and the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. He has also expressed a desire to continue improving his game and leading Morocco to new heights. Off the pitch, he has been involved in charitable work, using his platform to support causes in Morocco and beyond. Hiba Abouk, on the other hand, is planning to expand her acting career. She has signed on for a new Spanish drama series that is expected to air in 2025, and there are rumors of her involvement in a film project in Tunisia. She continues to co-parent with Hakimi, ensuring that their sons grow up in a stable and loving environment. Both have moved on from their marriage, but they remain connected through their children and their shared history. As Hakimi leads Morocco's World Cup 2026 campaign, and Abouk pursues her artistic passions, they are both building new chapters in their lives.
Source: Hindustan Times News