Marcus Rashford has led the outpouring of condolences for Cristiano Ronaldo and his family following the heartbreaking death of the Manchester United star’s infant son.
On behalf of himself and long-term partner Georgina Rodriguez, Ronaldo delivered a statement on Monday evening announcing the tragic death of their kid. He was expecting twins with Rodriguez, their second and third kid together, and the baby boy was one of them.
Unfortunately, the boy died shortly after birth, leaving Ronaldo and his family distraught. As he acknowledged his ‘sad’ at the death, Ronaldo paid respect to the medics and nurses that battled to save his baby.
“It is with great grief that we must inform you that our baby son has died.” It’s the worst pain a parent can experience. Only the birth of our newborn child has given us the strength to live this time with optimism and joy,” Ronaldo said in a statement.
“We want to express our gratitude to the physicians and nurses for all of their help and support. We are absolutely crushed by this loss, and we respectfully want privacy during this terrible time. You are our angel, our sweet boy. “You will always be loved by us.”
Rashford, a teammate, led the condolences and offered his support to Ronaldo and his family. “Thoughts are with you and Georgina brother,” the attacker wrote on Twitter. “Please accept my heartfelt apologies.”
Diogo Dalot, Alex Telles, and Donny van de Beek all sent love hearts in response to the message, expressing their support.
With a simple heart emoji, Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea quoted Ronaldo’s statement on Twitter.
Gary Lineker, a former Tottenham and Everton player, joined Rashford in expressing his sympathy. “Terribly terrible news,” the Match of the Day host wrote. Please accept my heartfelt sympathies for you and your family.”
United’s reaction to the news was one of deep regret. “Your anguish is our suffering, @Cristiano,” read a statement on the official club Twitter account. At this time, I’m sending love and strength to you and your family.”
“The thoughts and sympathies of everyone at the Premier League are with you and your family, Cristiano,” wrote the official Premier League Twitter account.
Usain Bolt, an Olympic gold medalist, and Alvaro Morata, a Juventus midfielder, both used the prayer emoji in response to Ronaldo’s statement. Piers Morgan, a TV host, also expressed his sadness in a message, writing: “Heartbreaking news. My heartfelt sympathies to you and your entire family.”
“Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Georgina, and the entire family during this difficult moment,” Juventus wrote.
“My friend, I give you my prayers and my feelings at this extremely trying time,” football icon Pele wrote. May God comfort and guide your hearts every step of the road.”
Ronaldo’s sister, with a clear reference to their father Denis, provided a moving response to the heartbreaking news. In 2005, he died of liver disease, and Kaita Aveiro stated that she believes Ronaldo’s son was with him.
“I adore you, and my thoughts and prayers are with you over there.” May God watch over you and continue to enhance your journey. Our angel has already taken a seat on our father’s lap. And our beautiful girl is there, sturdy, strong, and healthy, showing us every day that only love matters,” Aveiro wrote beside photos of Rodriguez and Ronaldo with her two children.