The football world is paying tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo following the tragic news that his baby son has passed away.
In a heartbreaking statement on Monday evening, the 37-year-old Manchester United forward, on behalf of himself and partner Georgina Rodriguez said: "It is with our deepest sadness that we announce the passing of our baby boy. It's the greatest pain any parent can feel. Only the birth of our baby girl gives us the strength to live this moment with some hope and happiness.
"We would like to thank the doctors and nurses for all their expert care and support. We are all devastated at this loss and we kindly ask for privacy at this very difficult time. Our baby boy, you are our angel. We will always love you. Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodriguez."
The couple’s baby girl is Ronaldo’s fifth child, with his eldest Cristiano Jr. now in the Manchester United academy. He then had twins Mateo and Eva before having his first with Gerogina last year.
Ronaldo has not only raised his own children but dedicated a great amount of resources to helping others. Last year, it emerged that the couple had generously donated money to help fund a child’s cancer treatment.
Tomas, 7, was diagnosed with a rare cancer called neuroblastoma in September 2019 and after relapsing, his parents asked for financial help with Ronaldo and Georgina admirably answering the call.
A heart-warming message, which was shared by Rodriguez's sister Ivana on social media, seemed to confirm the couple’s involvement. “Thank you Georgina and Cristiano for your help, solidarity and great heart,”' the message read. “Infinite thanks for helping us so that Tomas can access treatment.”
Ronaldo has also used his platform as the most recognisable footballer on the planet in his role as an ambassador for major charities. In 2016 he also recorded a message to children affected by the Syrian conflict, calling them heroes and stating “I am with you”.
In 2013, he donated a bonus for being named in the UEFA Team of the Year to the Red Cross, before doing the same with a £450,000 bonus he earned from winning the Champions League in 2014.
Ronaldo also dedicated a goal to brave Nuhuzet Guillen, after being alerted to the story of the nine-year-old’s battle with cancer. The Real Madrid supporter, with terminal cancer, met the superstar prior to a Real Madrid match.
He then scored a goal and paid tribute to the youngster, before inviting him to watch a match in his private box at the Bernabeu and gave him his match shirt. After discovering the boy’s cancer was terminal, he offered to pay for all of his treatment and offered to fly him out to the US for experimental treatment. After funding his care for more than a year the boy tragically passed away in March 2013.
