16:48 / 12.10.2026.

Author: "Mi Hrvati"/Ivona Zadro/Glas Hrvatske

American Newlyweds Delighted with Zagreb: They Will Name Their First Child Luka after Modrić

American Newlyweds Delighted with Zagreb
American Newlyweds Delighted with Zagreb
Foto: "Mi Hrvati" / Glas Hrvatske

Zagreb has won the hearts of American newlyweds Ashton and Zach Smith! During their stay in the Croatian capital, they explored its most famous landmarks, enjoyed walking through the city streets, and were enchanted by its beauty. Croatia has grown so close to their hearts that they made a special decision – they will name their first child Luka, after the captain of the Croatian national football team, Luka Modrić!

Zagreb Won Them Over at First Sight


The American newlyweds did not hide their enthusiasm for the Croatian capital. They visited the Upper Town (Gornji Grad) and the Stone Gate (Kamenita Vrata), walked through the vibrant Tkalčićeva Street, toured the Zagreb Cathedral, and enjoyed strolling through Zrinjevac park and soaking up the atmosphere of Ban Jelačić Square.


Zagreb's streets, historical landmarks, and the hospitality of its people left a special impression on them. The best testament to how much Croatia has grown on them is their decision to name their first child Luka, after our football captain.


From a Fan Party in America to an Unforgettable Trip around Croatia


Their incredible story began four months ago in Philadelphia, when around five thousand Croatian football fans unexpectedly became part of their wedding celebration.


Thanks to the "Mi Hrvati" (We Croatians) Fan Club, led by Željko Bulić, and the Croatian National Tourist Board, the newlyweds arrived in Croatia for a sort of second honeymoon.


They started their journey in Split, where they cheered on the Croatian national football team against Spain at Poljud Stadium.


"The atmosphere was great, the fans were passionate and loud. We watched the world champions live and, most importantly, saw Croatia score a goal," Ashton said enthusiastically.


After Split, they visited Šibenik, explored the Klis Fortress, and enjoyed the natural beauty of the Krka National Park.


"I liked the fortresses in Šibenik and Klis the most because of the history they hide, not to mention the viewpoints," Zach pointed out.


Croatia Will Forever Remain a Part of Their Story


From Dalmatia to Zagreb, Ashton and Zach got to know a Croatia that won them over with its history, natural beauty, but above all, its people.


A trip they could not have even imagined turned into a memory of a lifetime, and the name of their future child will be the most beautiful reminder of the country that won their hearts.


And while they leave Croatia full of impressions, they have already promised one thing – they will definitely return!

Vijesti HRT-a pratite na svojim pametnim telefonima i tabletima putem aplikacija za iOS i Android. Pratite nas i na društvenim mrežama Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok i YouTube!