Martin Braithwaite: The Journey of a Danish Striker
Martin Christensen Braithwaite, a name that resonates on European pitches and, more recently, in Brazilian football, is a prime example of determination, versatility, and success. Born in Esbjerg, Denmark, on June 5, 1991, Braithwaite has overcome personal and professional challenges to become a respected center-forward, with stints at elite clubs like Barcelona and, currently, Grêmio. His story is defined by resilience, talent, and a passion for football that transcends borders. This article explores Braithwaite’s life, career, and impact both on and off the field.
Early Life: Overcoming Obstacles
Childhood in Esbjerg
Martin Braithwaite was born in Esbjerg, a port city in Denmark, to a Danish mother and a Guyanese father. This multicultural heritage shaped his identity, connecting him to both Europe and South America, where Guyana, his father’s homeland, borders Brazil. From a young age, Martin showed a passion for football, inspired by Brazilian players his father admired. He dreamed of emulating idols like Ronaldo and Ronaldinho, whose skill and joy on the field captivated him.
A Health Challenge
Braithwaite’s childhood, however, was not without hardship. At the age of five, he was diagnosed with Legg-Calvé-Perthes syndrome, a rare condition affecting the hip joint. For two years, Martin relied on a wheelchair, grappling with the pain of watching other children play while he remained sidelined. In a 2021 CNN interview, he described this period as “very sad” but also a formative experience that strengthened his resolve. His recovery was slow, but with family support and his love for football, he overcame these challenges.
First Steps in Football
Development at Esbjerg fB
Braithwaite’s career began at his hometown club, Esbjerg fB, where he joined as a youth player. After a brief stint at FC Midtjylland’s academy, he returned to Esbjerg, signing a youth contract in 2007. His talent as a striker quickly stood out, leading to trials at clubs like Reggina in Italy and Newcastle United in England. In 2009, at age 18, Martin made his professional debut for Esbjerg in the Danish Superliga, marking the start of a promising career.
Early Achievements
During his time at Esbjerg, Braithwaite played 63 matches in the Superliga, scoring 12 goals. His breakout season came in 2012-13, when he netted nine goals across all league games and helped the club win the Danish Cup. In the semifinal against Brøndby IF, he scored twice, securing a victory and cementing his reputation as a clutch performer. These performances drew attention from European clubs and the Danish national team.
International Career: Representing Denmark
National Team Debut
Braithwaite debuted for Denmark in June 2013, in a friendly against Georgia, playing 61 minutes in a 2-1 win. Two months later, he scored his first international goal against Poland, despite a 3-2 loss. His call-up to the national team was a milestone, reflecting his growth as a player. Over the years, he became a regular fixture in the squad, even as Denmark struggled to qualify for major tournaments.
2018 World Cup
In 2018, Braithwaite fulfilled his dream of playing in a World Cup. Denmark qualified through the playoffs, and Martin debuted in the tournament against Peru in the group stage. Although he didn’t score, he gained valuable experience. Denmark’s campaign ended in the round of 16 with a loss to Croatia, but Braithwaite’s participation underscored his importance to the team.
Euro 2020: A Moment of Glory
The Euro 2020 tournament (held in 2021 due to the pandemic) was a turning point for Braithwaite. Starting in all matches, he scored in a 4-0 rout of Wales in the round of 16. Denmark reached the semifinals, falling 2-1 to England in extra time in a thrilling match. Braithwaite’s performances elevated his profile, attracting interest from Premier League clubs and beyond.
2022 World Cup
At the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Braithwaite had a more limited role, appearing in just two matches. Denmark failed to advance past the group stage, earning only one point. Despite the disappointing outcome, Martin’s presence in his second World Cup highlighted his consistency on the international stage.
Club Career: From Esbjerg to Barcelona
Toulouse and Middlesbrough
In 2013, after shining at Esbjerg, Braithwaite transferred to Toulouse in France for around €2 million. There, he honed his skills, scoring key goals and gaining experience in a competitive league. In 2017, he joined Middlesbrough in the EFL Championship for £9 million. His time in England had its ups and downs, but he showcased his versatility by playing as both a center-forward and a winger.
The Unexpected Move to Barcelona
In February 2020, Braithwaite experienced a career-defining moment when he was signed by Barcelona to replace the injured Ousmane Dembélé. The transfer, enabled by a La Liga rule allowing emergency signings outside the transfer window, cost €18 million and sparked controversy. Coming from Leganés, where he had been a standout, Martin faced the daunting task of filling the void left by players like Luis Suárez. In 52 appearances for Barcelona, he scored eight goals—a modest tally but one that exceeded expectations given the team’s high standards.
Espanyol and a Return to Goal-Scoring Form
After leaving Barcelona in 2022, Braithwaite joined Espanyol, where he had a stellar 2023-24 season in Spain’s second division, scoring 22 goals and becoming the league’s top scorer. His finishing prowess and leadership put him back on the radar of bigger clubs, leading to his move to Grêmio.
A New Home: Grêmio and the Brazilian Dream
Arrival in Brazil
On July 22, 2024, Grêmio announced the signing of Martin Braithwaite, a move that surprised fans and analysts alike. The Danish striker signed a contract until mid-2026, bringing his European experience to Brazilian football. His debut was unforgettable: against Cuiabá, he contributed to all four goals in the match, despite an own goal. Braithwaite scored twice, securing the win and winning over the Tricolor fans.
Contract Renewal and Impact
On July 21, 2025, Grêmio extended Braithwaite’s contract until the end of 2027, recognizing his importance as a goal-scorer and leader. With 21 goals in the season, he became a linchpin in coach Renato Gaúcho’s attacking setup. In interviews, Martin expressed his admiration for Brazilian football, citing the influence of players like Pelé and Romário from his childhood. “Brazil symbolizes football, and now I’m part of it. That fills me with pride,” he told the Danish newspaper Tipsbladet.
Adapting to Brazil
Braithwaite quickly adapted to Brazil, praising the passion of the fans and the vibrant atmosphere of the local game. He noted the growing quality of the Brazilian league, stating, “Bigger names are coming here.” Despite competition from players like Diego Costa, Martin remains focused, emphasizing on-field performance as the key factor.
Life Off the Pitch: A Successful Entrepreneur
Real Estate Ventures
Beyond football, Braithwaite is a thriving entrepreneur. He co-owns NYCE Companies, a U.S.-based real estate firm founded with his uncle, Philip Michael. The company focuses on affordable housing, particularly in historically Black communities in Philadelphia and New Jersey. With an estimated net worth of $280 million, Braithwaite was named to Forbes’ billionaire list, a rare achievement for a footballer.
Other Ventures
Martin also owns the clothing brand Trente, run with his wife, French journalist Anne-Laure Louis Braithwaite. The couple also operates a restaurant in Barcelona, diversifying their income and influence. During the 2020 pandemic, Braithwaite found solace in cooking, learning to bake bread and exploring new hobbies to connect with his family.
Legacy and Future Prospects
At 34, Martin Braithwaite continues to write his football story. His journey, marked by personal triumphs, club successes, international appearances, and business achievements, is inspiring. At Grêmio, he aims to win titles and leave his mark on Brazilian football, a dream tied to his lifelong admiration for the country. Off the field, his entrepreneurial vision and commitment to social causes, like affordable housing, showcase an athlete who transcends the game.
Braithwaite is more than a footballer; he is a symbol of resilience and ambition. His path, from a child in a wheelchair in Esbjerg to a billionaire and prolific striker in Brazil, proves that with talent, hard work, and determination, the impossible becomes possible. As he continues to shine at Grêmio and with the Danish national team, the football world eagerly awaits the next chapters of his remarkable story.
