Ronaldo choked up during the tribute ceremony for Diogo Jota

Cristiano Ronaldo fought back tears at the remembrance event for Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva, where the whole Portugal squad and the family of the deceased player shared a heartfelt tribute.

In the early hours of September 3rd, the Portugal national team held a ceremony to honor Diogo Jota and Andre Silva at the national training center. The team wore dark suits, creating a solemn and mournful atmosphere. Despite trying to remain composed, Cristiano Ronaldo could not hide his emotion as the audience applauded in memory of his close teammate. Cameras captured the 40-year-old veteran visibly choked up, his eyes red as he struggled to hold back tears.

“More than friends, we are family. And that will not change just because you signed a contract a bit further away.”, Ruben Neves said during the tribute ceremony.

Cristiano Ronaldo holding back tears for Diogo Jota pic.twitter.com/P0X2KwoKVp

— The last dance (@26lastdance) September 2, 2025

Jota passed away at age 28 along with his brother in a car accident in July, delivering a huge shock to Portuguese and world football. During his life, he was a close younger brother figure to Ronaldo and often expressed that CR7 was his greatest inspiration. Because of this, Ronaldo's absence from the funeral due to concerns over potential chaos drew criticism, but at this special memorial, CR7’s restrained emotions deeply moved many.

The ceremony was also attended by Jota’s family, agent Jorge Mendes, and officials from the Portuguese Football Federation. Jota’s wife, Rute Cardoso, appeared to unveil a bronze jersey bearing his name and number 20, displayed respectfully in a glass frame. She and the late player’s parents were also presented with a special media award as a tribute to Jota’s contributions and spirit.

Ruben Neves, a close friend who played alongside Jota for years at Porto, Wolves, and the national team, was unable to hold back tears while reading a handwritten letter to his friend. He has a tattoo of them embracing on his left calf and chose to wear the number 21 jersey for the national team to carry on Jota’s legacy. “From today, you will walk onto the pitch with us, and we will move forward together.”, Neves choked up.

Tributes to Jota extended beyond the ceremony. The entire country of Portugal left a spot vacant in the 23-player squad list, symbolizing his spiritual presence. Liverpool also retired the number 20 jersey, marking the unfinished career of this talented striker.

Looking ahead, Portugal will face Armenia and Hungary in two World Cup 2026 qualifying matches in September. Ronaldo continues to lead the team, aiming to participate in his sixth World Cup. But for CR7 and his teammates, this journey now carries an additional mission: to fight on in memory of Diogo Jota — a teammate and brother forever in the hearts of the Portuguese national team.

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