Footballer's wife acts as a surrogate for sick friend

New Zealand football star Jeremy Brockie has paid tribute to his wife Jessica after she acted as surrogate for a friend, giving birth to a baby boy named Rixon James Arena.

The couple's friend Bec Arena suffered cystic fibrosis and wasn't able to carry a baby of her own.

When her friend Jessica offered to carry the baby for her, she and husband Gareth Arena were thrilled.

Read more: One woman's best friend gives the ultimate gift

Sadly Bec passed away in September 2017 when Jessica was five months pregnant and will never get to meet her son.

Brockie shared an Instagram post about his wife, saying he was "unbelievably proud" of his wife's self-less act.

"So unbelievably proud of my wife @jesbrockie to give up your time and body for someone else is incredibly special," he wrote.

"It's been such a great journey to be involved in and so glad we could do this side by side. To be able to help another family like this is so rewarding.

"Gareth you're going to be a great dad!!"

Jessica Brockie shared news of the birth on her Twitter account, "And just like that, Rixon James Arena has arrived in this world! What an amazing journey to be a part of.

"Memories that @JRBrockie and I will treasure forever. Thank you Bec & Gareth for letting our family travel this road with you. #surrogacy."

Image: Twitter @jessicabrockie

The Brockie's have two children of their own - Piper and Oskar.

Jeremy Brockie is a New Zealand professional footballer who plays for SuperSport United in the South African Premier Soccer League.

He has also represented New Zealand at senior international level, including the 2010 FIFA World Cup and at the 2008 Olympic Games.