Basketball star Luka Dončić has announced that he and his fiancée Anamaria Goltes have ended their engagement, just two months after the birth of their second child. In a statement to ESPN, the Dallas Mavericks star made it clear that the decision was a difficult one, particularly as he prioritises the happiness of his daughters amidst the complexities of their family situation.
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Dončić, 26, expressed his love for his daughters in the statement, saying, “I love my daughters more than anything and I’ve been doing everything I can for them to be with me in the U.S. during the season, but that hasn’t been possible.” He indicated that the struggle to maintain a family life while pursuing his professional basketball career was a significant factor in his decision to end the engagement.
The couple welcomed their second daughter just a few months ago, but according to reports, Goltes has since filed a petition for child support in a California court. The petition includes a request for attorney’s fees as well as an unspecified amount for child support, underscoring the financial implications of the separation.
Dončić proposed to Goltes in July 2023, during a romantic moment near Bled Castle in Slovenia, their home country. The couple, who have known each other since childhood, first crossed paths at the age of 12 while on holiday in Croatia. Goltes reflected on their long-standing friendship during a 2020 social media Q&A, noting that they still share a close-knit group of friends from those early days.
The pair welcomed their first child, a daughter named Gabriela, in December 2023. Dončić has previously spoken about the joy of becoming a father, calling the birth of his first child “the happiest day of my life” and noting that Gabriela is a “great baby.” His enthusiasm for fatherhood has been evident throughout his career, with the athlete consistently emphasising that his children are his top priority.
In early December 2025, Dončić attended several Lakers games on leave to support Goltes when she gave birth to their second child, highlighting his commitment to family, even amidst the rigors of an NBA season. His engagement to Goltes had garnered attention for its romantic backdrop and their long history together, making the news of their separation even more notable.
Following a high-profile trade from the Dallas Mavericks to the Los Angeles Lakers, Dončić expressed his enjoyment of life in Southern California, including its favourable climate and proximity to the ocean. The star player has embraced his role in the vibrant basketball scene in LA, balancing it with his responsibilities as a father.
Despite the challenges that come with professional sports and family dynamics, Dončić remains focused on providing the best life for his children. He has voiced a commitment to their welfare and well-being, reassuring fans and followers that they will continue to be his motivation.
While the couple’s split has shocked many, it reflects the complexities that can arise when personal and professional commitments collide. As Dončić navigates this new chapter in his life, the 26-year-old continues to captivate basketball fans with his on-court talent while also adapting to the ever-changing nature of fatherhood.