Thibaut
Courtois

Thibaut Courtois is a Belgian professional footballer renowned for his exceptional skills as a goalkeeper.

Career overview

Currently playing for Real Madrid and the Belgium national team, he is widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time.

Visit the official Thibaut Courtois site →

Career honours

1FIFA World Cup · Third place with Belgium in 2018

1Golden Glove · Best goalkeeper at the 2018 FIFA World Cup

2Ricardo Zamora Trophy · Three times for best goalkeeper in La Liga

2Premier League Golden Glove · Once during his time at Chelsea

3La Liga Titles · Three titles with Real Madrid

3UEFA Champions League Titles · Two titles with Real Madrid

3EFL Cup · Won with Chelsea

3Europa League · Won with Atlético Madrid

Records

RMost clean sheets in La Liga · Achieved multiple times.

RYoungest senior international goalkeeper for Belgium · Debuted at age 19.

Biography

Early Life & Origins

Thibaut Courtois was born in Bree, Belgium, to a Walloon father and a Flemish mother. He began his football journey at a young age, initially playing as a left back before transitioning to goalkeeper. He joined the youth team of Genk in 1999, where he honed his skills and developed into a promising talent.

Rise to Prominence

Courtois made his senior debut for Genk in 2009 at just 16 years old. His impressive performances helped Genk secure the Belgian Pro League title in the 2010-11 season. His talent caught the attention of Chelsea, who signed him in 2011, leading to a successful loan spell at Atlético Madrid, where he won multiple titles.

Playing Style & Technique

Known for his incredible reflexes and acrobatic saves, Courtois commands his penalty area with authority. His height gives him an advantage in aerial duels, while his shot-stopping ability has earned him accolades and recognition as one of the best goalkeepers in the world.

Defining Moments & Achievements

Courtois's career reached new heights when he helped Belgium secure a third-place finish in the 2018 FIFA World Cup, earning the Golden Glove award for the best goalkeeper. At club level, he has won numerous titles, including three La Liga and two UEFA Champions League titles with Real Madrid.

Rivalries & Era Context

Courtois has faced fierce competition from other top goalkeepers, including Manuel Neuer and Alisson Becker. His performances in high-stakes matches, particularly in the UEFA Champions League, have solidified his status among the elite in modern football.

Legacy & Impact

Courtois is not only celebrated for his on-field achievements but also for his professionalism and dedication to the sport. His journey from a young talent in Belgium to a world-class goalkeeper serves as an inspiration for aspiring footballers globally.

Stats in detail

By Competition

A detailed breakdown of Courtois's appearances and goals across different competitions.

Domestic League	510 apps, 0 goals
UEFA Champions League	over 100 apps, 0 goals
Domestic Cups	29 apps, 0 goals
International Matches	109 caps, 0 goals

By Club

Courtois's performance statistics across his club career.

Genk	41 apps, 0 goals
Atlético Madrid (loan)	111 apps, 0 goals
Chelsea	126 apps, 0 goals
Real Madrid	232 apps, 0 goals

Standout Seasons

Highlighting Courtois's most notable seasons in terms of performances.

2011-12 (Atlético Madrid)	37 apps, 0 goals
2014-15 (Chelsea)	32 apps, 0 goals
2018-19 (Real Madrid)	27 apps, 0 goals
2021-22 (Real Madrid)	36 apps, 0 goals
2022-23 (Real Madrid)	31 apps, 0 goals