Cristiano Ronaldo Opens Up About Diogo Jota's Tragic Death and Explains Funeral Absence
Cristiano Ronaldo was deeply emotional and "shed many tears" upon hearing about the tragic deaths of his Portugal national team colleague Diogo Jota and Jota's brother André Silva, though he chose not to attend their funeral to avoid creating an unwanted spectacle.
The football community united in grief on July 3 when Jota, aged 28, and his sibling Silva, 26, lost their lives in a devastating car accident in Spain. Ronaldo joined numerous players in paying tribute to both men through a heartfelt statement after the tragic news emerged.
The 40-year-old superstar, who had celebrated Nations League success with Jota earlier in the year, shared his thoughts on the devastating loss during Part 2 of his interview with Piers Morgan.
"I couldn't accept [it] when they texted me the news. I wept extensively. Those were extremely, extremely challenging times for everybody - the nation, the family, friends, and teammates. Incredibly heartbreaking news," Ronaldo expressed.
"It was a moment of complete shock. We continue to sense his presence within the national squad when we wear the jersey because Diogo was truly one of our own."
Portugal honored their number 21 before their 1-0 triumph against Ireland on Saturday, October 11. This 2026 World Cup qualifying match marked the team's first home game since Jota's passing, with his close friend Rúben Neves netting the decisive goal while sporting the number 21 jersey.
Ronaldo fondly recalled the Liverpool forward as a "wonderful person, a reserved individual," whose death served as a reminder to "appreciate being here and cherish each moment, embrace life fully."
Ronaldo Explains His Absence from Jota's Funeral
Although numerous teammates from both club and country attended Jota's private funeral service in Portugal, Ronaldo was notably absent. The Al Nassr striker faced significant criticism for not showing up personally, but he disclosed his personal motivations for staying away and confirmed he "had the chance to communicate with [Jota's] relatives" following the tragedy.
"Something I've avoided since my father's passing is visiting cemeteries ever again," Ronaldo explained. "Additionally... my presence anywhere creates a media frenzy. I [stayed away] because if I attend, the focus shifts [from Jota] to myself, and I refuse to allow that type of attention."
Despite facing criticism, Ronaldo maintains he "felt comfortable" with his choice.
"I don't need to be front and center for people to notice me [and] speak positively because, 'Look, Cristiano showed up.' No. I'm considering his loved ones. I don't need to be on camera for others to witness my actions."
Ronaldo concluded the conversation by emphasizing that he operated "away from the spotlight" out of consideration for Jota and his relatives.