Mika Zibanejad’s first Father’s Day was more than just a calendar event—it was a heartfelt milestone, lovingly captured by Irma’s words
Their journey into parenthood is a beautiful reminder of how life evolves and how love deepens when shared with those who matter most.
While Mika will return to the NHL grind in due time, for now, he’s enjoying the most meaningful role of all: being Ella’s dad.
And thanks to Irma’s thoughtful storytelling, the world gets to share in their joy—one post, one memory, and one moment at a time.
April 18 wasn’t just about turning 32—it was a day that celebrated love, family, and the many roles Mika plays in life. While fans know him for his goals and assists, his wife and daughter know him simply as the man who loves them deeply and shows up for them every day.
Irma’s birthday tribute wasn’t filled with glitz or extravagance—it was real, affectionate, and personal. And that’s what made it so perfect.
As the Rangers look ahead to the rest of their season and as Mika continues to lead with grace and skill, one thing is clear: his heart belongs to his family.
Also Read: Mika Zibanejad Speaks Out After Rangers’ 2-1 Loss to Flames in Playoff Battle
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Mika Zibanejad Turns 32 Surrounded by Love
A Special Day for a Beloved Ranger
New York Rangers star forward Mika Zibanejad celebrated his 32nd birthday on April 18 in the most heartwarming way—with his family by his side and a flood of love from his wife, Irma Helin Zibanejad.1
The Swedish hockey player, known for his leadership on the ice and calm demeanor off of it, was treated to a special tribute that reflected just how deeply he is loved at home.
His wife Irma shared an intimate and adorable moment from the day, posting a photo to Instagram that melted the hearts of fans.
The picture featured Mika with their baby daughter Ella, sitting at a restaurant with Mika’s arms lovingly wrapped around the tiny toddler. Behind them was a heart-shaped sign with the simple but powerful message: “I LOVE YOU!”
— Mika Zibanejad (@MikaZibanejad) January 18, 2023
Irma’s Overflowing Love and Sweet Words
The Instagram post was more than just a picture—it was a celebration of Mika’s character, his love as a husband and father, and the joy he brings to his family.
Irma added several digital stickers and colorful text overlays that added personality and emotion to the image. Among them were sweet affirmations like “YOU ARE THE BEST EVER” and “I LOVE YOU SO SO HARD, LIKE THE MOST EVER.”
But perhaps the most touching part of her post was a heartfelt message written in Swedish, her native language:
“Min människa!!!! För alltid älskar vi dig mest i hela världen!! Grattis på födelsedagen älskade älskade Mika. Så stolt över den person du är min goda, varma underbara älskling.”
In English, it translates to:
“My human!!!! Forever we love you the most in the whole world!! Happy birthday beloved beloved Mika. So proud of the person you are, my good, warm, wonderful darling.”
The message reveals the depth of their connection and how much Mika is cherished not only for his achievements on the rink, but for the man he is behind the scenes.
Mika Zibanejad and Irma Helin’s Love Story
From Teammates to Soulmates
Mika Zibanejad and Irma Helin’s journey as a couple is a story filled with love, mutual respect, and a strong foundation built over years.2
Irma, a former professional soccer player herself, understands the pressures and demands of a professional athlete’s life. That shared background has likely contributed to their deep bond.
The couple tied the knot on August 29, 2021, in a dreamy ceremony surrounded by family and friends. Irma later shared a glimpse of the big day on social media with the caption: “Best Day Ever ❤️”
Their marriage is built not only on romance, but also on shared values, a love of family, and an appreciation for life’s special moments.
Welcoming Baby Ella
One of the most important milestones in the couple’s life came on September 1, 2023, when they welcomed their daughter, Ella. Becoming parents brought a new dimension of joy and love into their lives.
Though Mika is a fan favorite for his clutch goals and steady leadership, it’s clear that at home, he’s simply “Dad.” Irma’s recent birthday post highlighting him as a father underlined the pride and affection she feels watching him embrace this role.
Ella has quickly become a big part of the family’s life, and fans have enjoyed seeing occasional glimpses of her, often bundled in cute outfits or attending games with her mom to support her dad.
A Tiny Fan in the Big Leagues
- In February 2024, just months after her birth, Ella experienced her first taste of NHL excitement at the Stadium Series game at MetLife Stadium, where the Rangers faced off against their cross-town rivals, the New York Islanders.
- The event was historic and electric, with over 70,000 fans in attendance.
- The Rangers emerged victorious with a thrilling 6-5 overtime win, adding another memorable night to Mika’s long list of career highlights.
- But perhaps the most meaningful moment for him was knowing his daughter was in the stands—her first major sporting event.
- Irma documented the experience on social media, sharing how proud she was of Mika and how special it was to have their daughter there for such a big occasion.
- For Mika, it was a full-circle moment—combining the love of his sport with the joy of fatherhood.
Mika Zibanejad: Balancing Hockey and Family Life
Staying Grounded Through the Chaos
For professional athletes, the season can be a whirlwind of games, travel, and media obligations.3
Despite that, Mika Zibanejad has always managed to stay grounded, a quality that his family deeply admires.
Irma’s message highlights not only his role as a hockey star but also as a partner and father. It’s clear that his family keeps him centered. Whether celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or big wins, they do it together.
Off the ice, Mika is known for his quiet confidence and steady nature—traits that surely make him a wonderful father and husband. And judging by the love and praise Irma showers on him, he balances those roles effortlessly.
A Glimpse Into Their Private Life
Though both Mika and Irma are public figures, they choose to keep much of their personal life relatively private.
However, the moments they do share give fans a rare and wholesome glimpse into their world.
Irma often posts photos filled with lightheartedness and warmth—whether it’s a quiet moment at home, a funny family selfie, or a sweet birthday tribute. Each post radiates the genuine love they have for one another.
It’s these small, honest moments that fans gravitate toward—not because Mika is a celebrity, but because his family reminds people of the everyday joys of love, parenthood, and partnership.
Family, Hockey, and New Memories to Make
As Mika Zibanejad continues his career with the Rangers, his personal life remains a strong source of joy and motivation. With his family cheering him on, both at home and from the stands, he steps into each game with purpose.
Ella’s presence will surely bring new energy into their lives. From first steps and first words to future birthdays and celebrations, the Zibanejads are just beginning their journey as a family of three.
With Irma by his side and their daughter in his arms, Mika Zibanejad has a solid foundation not only to face the challenges of the NHL but to enjoy the beautiful moments that come with being a husband and father.
Also Read: Mika Zibanejad: Who Is He? Bio, Wiki, Age, Career, Wife, Relationship and Birthday Celebration
Mika Zibanejad: Wife Irma’s Pregnancy Announcement
In February 2023, Irma Helin, wife of New York Rangers star Mika Zibanejad, shared a beautiful moment with her followers on Instagram—a pregnancy announcement that marked the beginning of a life-changing journey.
With a tender snapshot featuring baby shoes and a sonogram, she wrote:
“Our family is growing. Can’t wait to meet our daughter 👶🏻❤️”
The post was met with an outpouring of love and support from fans and fellow athletes. It was a glowing introduction to the next chapter in the couple’s lives—parenthood.
Irma, who frequently gives her followers a glimpse into her life through heartfelt and personal posts, gave a sense of warmth and intimacy that resonated deeply with those who follow her and Mika’s journey.
Welcome to the World: Introducing Baby Ella
On September 1, 2023, the couple’s dream became a reality when their daughter, Ella, was born.
Irma introduced their bundle of joy to the world with a simple but moving Instagram post that featured a photo of the newborn and a caption that read:
“Hi Ella! 🤍”
The caption, brief yet brimming with emotion, captured the joy and awe of new parenthood. Fans and friends once again flooded the comments with congratulations, expressing excitement for the couple as they stepped into their roles as parents.
For Mika, a fierce competitor on the ice, this was a different kind of challenge—one filled with love, late nights, and new responsibilities.
Mika Zibanejad’s First Father’s Day Tribute
As Father’s Day rolled around in June 2024, Irma once again took to Instagram to celebrate a significant milestone—Mika’s very first Father’s Day.
Her message was nothing short of touching. Overflowing with admiration and love, she praised Mika for embracing fatherhood with grace and warmth. Her heartfelt tribute read:
“Micah!! Your first Father’s Day. That Ella has you as a dad, gaaahh! The best of all. I love you so much. You will never be able to understand how much. You are the best. What we fantasized about our little family, and now we are here. The three of us! My family! Father’s Day! Haha incredible.”
Her words painted a picture of a dream turned into reality—of two people who once imagined a family of their own and now stood together in awe of the life they had created.
From Dreams to Reality: The Joy of Family Life
Irma’s Father’s Day message continued, becoming even more personal and reflective. She wrote:
“Now you are so obvious and fantastic as a dad. You are everything. Most important. The warmest, safe, calm, fun, cozy, nice and cuddly dad I’ve seen. Love You More The Ever Babe.”
Through her words, Irma revealed the profound love and admiration she holds for Mika, not only as a partner but as a father. She highlighted the qualities that make him a truly special dad: his warmth, his calm demeanor, and his ability to create a loving, secure environment for their daughter.
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A Christmas Memory: A Family’s Special Tradition Begins
Holidays have a unique way of embedding memories into the heart, and for Irma and Mika, Christmas took on an entirely new meaning in 2023.
For Ella’s very first Christmas, Irma recalled a special moment that had taken place the year before—when she shared the news of her pregnancy with Mika and their families:
“Last Christmas I told your dad and our families about you. Merry first Christmas Ella.”
That simple sentence spoke volumes, bringing a full-circle moment to life—one Christmas announcing her, and the next celebrating her presence in their lives. It underscored the love, hope, and magic that surrounded Ella even before she was born.
Offseason Bliss: Time for Family and Rest
With the New York Rangers out of the playoffs, Mika Zibanejad’s focus has shifted from the rink to his home.
For a player who gives his all during the season, the offseason is a chance to recharge. But this year, it holds an even deeper significance—it’s his first offseason as a father.
Now, Mika has the opportunity to spend uninterrupted quality time with his wife and daughter.
Whether it’s bonding with Ella, enjoying quiet moments at home, or creating new family traditions, this offseason presents a rare chance to savor the joys of fatherhood. And with Irma by his side, the couple is surely soaking in every moment.
Also Read: Isaiah Hartenstein Wears Mika Zibanejad Sweater as Knicks Gear Up for Round 2
