Willem-Alexander was born in Utrecht, the eldest son of then Princess Beatrix and Prince Claus van Amsberg. He has two younger brothers, Prince Friso and Prince Constantijn. He was educated at the Baarnsch Lyceum in Baarn and went on to study history at Leiden University, graduating in 1993.
After graduating, Willem-Alexander worked as a consultant at the Royal Dutch Shell company and as a water management expert for the Dutch government. He also served in the Royal Netherlands Navy, eventually reaching the rank of Commander.
In 2002, Willem-Alexander married Máxima Zorreguieta Cerruti, an Argentine investment banker. They have three daughters: Catharina-Amalia, Alexia, and Ariane.
Willem-Alexander is a popular monarch and is known for his down-to-earth nature. He is also an accomplished athlete and has competed in the New York City Marathon and the Tour de France.
Here are some additional facts about Willem-Alexander:
* He is the first king of the Netherlands since 1890.
* He is the first Dutch monarch to marry a Roman Catholic.
* He is fluent in Dutch, English, Spanish, and German.
* He is a patron of the arts and is interested in music, painting, and sculpture.
* He is a member of the International Olympic Committee.