Cristiano Ronaldo Explains Why He Missed Diogo Jota's Funeral
Football legend Cristiano Ronaldo was absent from the funeral of his late Portugal teammate Diogo Jota earlier this year. Ronaldo has addressed the criticism over his decision, explaining his reasons and defending his conscience.
Tragic Loss in Portuguese Football
Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva tragically died in a car accident in July, deeply affecting the football community. While several of Jota’s club and national teammates attended the funeral, Ronaldo notably did not.
Ronaldo's Explanation in Interview
In an interview with Piers Morgan, the 40-year-old revealed he has avoided cemeteries since the death of his father. He chose not to attend Jota’s funeral to prevent turning the occasion into a spectacle.
“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. 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.”
Views on Media and Public Attention
Ronaldo expressed discomfort with public attention during sensitive times, especially when interviews shift focus away from the person being mourned.
“I don’t like it when you go to a sensitive moment to do interviews, to speak about him, to speak about football. This shows how a circus is life, sometimes. If you want to be a part of this world, good luck, but I will be a part of another side. People can continue to criticise.”
Despite criticism, Ronaldo stands firm on his choice, emphasizing his inner peace and desire to avoid unnecessary attention at emotional moments.
Author’s summary: Cristiano Ronaldo defended his absence at Diogo Jota’s funeral, citing personal grief and a wish to avoid public spectacle, standing by his peaceful conscience despite criticism.