Friday marks the first anniversary of the tragic death of Liverpool star Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva. While numerous teammates attended the funeral, Cristiano Ronaldo chose not to be present for a deeply personal and moving reason.
Ronaldo Explains His Absence
In an interview with Piers Morgan, Ronaldo addressed the criticism he faced for skipping the ceremony. He stated, "Two things; people criticise me a lot. I don't care about that. When your conscience is good and free, you don't have to worry about what people say. But one of the things I don't do? After my father died, I have never been to a cemetery again."
Ronaldo further explained, "When you know me and you know my reputation? Wherever I go, it is a circus. I don't go out because, if I go, the attention goes to me. I don't want this sort of attention. I don't like it when you go to a sensitive moment to do interviews, to speak about him, to speak about football."
The Tragic Accident
On July 3, 2025, Jota, 28, and his brother Andre Silva lost their lives in a car accident in north-western Spain. The tragedy struck just 11 days after Jota's wedding to his long-term partner Rute Cardoso. A public wake and funeral mass were held at Igreja Matriz de Gondomar on July 5, drawing hundreds of mourners, including Liverpool players and Portugal internationals.
Portugal's Tribute at the World Cup
Ronaldo and his Portugal teammates are honouring Jota's memory at the World Cup 2026 in North America. The squad wears commemorative green-and-red wristbands featuring the names of every squad member alongside Jota's, symbolising his presence at the tournament. Portugal's prime minister presented these bands to each player. Jota has also been named an honorary member of the World Cup squad.
Portugal finished as runners-up in Group K after drawing against DR Congo and Colombia, while defeating Uzbekistan 5-0. They now face Croatia in the round of 32.
Liverpool's Tributes
Liverpool officially retired Jota's No. 20 shirt and paid out his remaining salary in full. Teammates continue to honour him through various gestures, including WhatsApp messages with his wife Rute.
