Los Angeles – Whereas currently performing as one of the best basketball players in the world, Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Dončić is navigating a difficult personal challenge. The Slovenian guard and his fiancée, Anamaria Goltes, have separated, a development Dončić confirmed to ESPN. “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, so I recently made the tough decision to end my engagement,” Dončić said in a statement.
The nearly decade-long relationship appears to be ending in a complex dispute over residency and custody of their two daughters, Gabriela, 2, and Olivia, 3 months. Goltes remains in Slovenia with the children, while Dončić is based in the United States for his NBA career.
Luka Dončić in action for the Los Angeles Lakers.
Legal Proceedings and Financial Concerns
The separation follows months of disagreements regarding the couple’s future, according to reports. TMZ reported that Goltes filed a petition in California seeking child support and attorney fees from Dončić. Sources familiar with Dončić’s situation told ESPN that the petition was filed in California, despite one of Dončić’s daughters having spent only three months in the state last spring, and the other daughter never having visited. Dončić reportedly was unaware of the filing. Sources also indicated that Dončić, who signed a three-year, $165 million contract extension with the Lakers in August, has consistently provided for his family and covers his daughters’ expenses without limitation.
The relationship between Dončić and Goltes began in their youth, dating back to around 2010, when they first met at the seaside in Croatia. They officially began dating in 2016, with Goltes later joining Dončić in the United States as his basketball career progressed. Their first daughter, Gabriela, was born in December 2023 while Dončić was with the Dallas Mavericks. Their second daughter, Olivia, arrived in December 2023 in Slovenia, shortly after Dončić was traded to the Lakers.
Police Involvement Reported
Reports indicate a prior incident involving law enforcement. According to TMZ, tensions arose regarding the location of their newborn daughter, Olivia, late last year, leading Goltes to contact the police to mediate between the two. But, no formal complaint was filed.
What’s Next for Dončić and Goltes?
The situation is now unfolding within the legal system. Goltes’ petition seeks to establish a legally sound framework for the financial support of their two daughters, enforceable in U.S. Courts. Sources close to Dončić, speaking to ESPN, stated that he had no prior knowledge of the petition.
This marks a somber conclusion to a relationship that spanned nearly a decade. While Dončić continues to pursue championship aspirations with the Lakers, his personal life faces a new chapter. Dončić stated, “Everything I do is for my daughters’ happiness and I will always fight to be with them and grant them the best life I can.” The future for both Dončić and Goltes, and most importantly, their two daughters, will now be determined through legal proceedings.
The Lakers currently hold a playoff position in the Western Conference, and Dončić’s performance remains crucial to their postseason hopes. The team has not commented on the personal matter, allowing Dončić to focus on basketball. His next opportunity to take the court will be Friday, March 15th, when the Lakers face the Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum (8:00 PM CT / 12:00 AM UTC March 16th).
As this situation develops, Archysport will continue to provide updates as they become available.
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