Ronaldo explains two reasons for not attending Diogo Jota's funeral

07/11/2025 05:53:00 SportScoop

Cristiano Ronaldo stated that he skipped Diogo Jota's funeral out of respect for a vow to his father and to prevent the event from becoming a noisy focal point.

Cristiano Ronaldo spoke out after being criticized for missing the funeral of Diogo Jota - his teammate on the Portugal national team, who passed away in a car accident in July. In an interview with journalist Piers Morgan, the Al Nassr superstar said he “does not regret” his decision, even though he understands it may upset some people.

According to Ronaldo, there are two reasons why he did not attend the farewell of his late teammate. First, CR7 revealed that he had vowed never to set foot in a cemetery since his father passed away nearly 20 years ago. “I promised my father that I would never return to a cemetery. I keep that promise because it holds one of the deepest memories of my life,” he shared.

The second reason, Ronaldo said, was his concern that his presence would disrupt the solemnity of the funeral. “Whenever I appear anywhere, all attention turns to me. I did not want that to happen at a memorial service. I didn’t want cameras, interview questions, or shouting where people need quiet,” CR7 stated bluntly.

The Portuguese superstar affirmed that he chose to honor Jota quietly rather than appear in front of cameras

Earlier, images of Ronaldo relaxing on a yacht in Mallorca during Jota's funeral sparked public outrage, with many accusing him of being “insensitive.” However, Ronaldo said he maintained private contact, sending condolences and support to Jota’s family.

He added: “I don’t need to be front and center on camera to show respect. I cried a lot when I heard about Jota’s passing, and to this day, the Portugal team still feels his presence when they take the field.”

During the conversation, CR7 shared details for the first time about the moment he received the tragic news: “I was on vacation, and I got a message while working out at the gym. I... I couldn’t believe what they told me... I cried a lot.” He choked up adding: “That was an incredibly difficult moment for all of us.”

When asked about the criticism, Ronaldo responded candidly: “People criticized me a lot, and as I’ve said before, I don’t care what they say about me.” He also expressed affectionate words for his late teammate: “Diogo Jota was a wonderful guy, quiet and very calm… I truly enjoyed our conversations.”

Ronaldo shared that he cried deeply upon hearing of Jota’s death

CR7’s story gains more meaning as his sister, Katia Aveiro, revealed that their family was haunted by media cameras and curious crowds during their father’s funeral. She said this is why Ronaldo avoids cemeteries — to protect privacy and respect the deceased.

Diogo Jota’s funeral took place in his hometown in Portugal, attended by coach Arne Slot, Liverpool teammates such as Virgil van Dijk, Andy Robertson, Jordan Henderson, James Milner, and Bruno Fernandes — representing the Portugal national team. Jota died alongside his brother Andre Silva in a car accident in Spain, shortly after his wedding.

Diogo Jota played a key role in Liverpool’s Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup victories, as well as two Nations League titles with Portugal. His sudden passing shocked the European football community.

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