The football world is mourning the tragic loss of Liverpool and Portugal star Diogo Jota, who passed away in a car accident on July 3 alongside his brother, André Silva. The 28-year-old forward was laid to rest near his hometown of Porto, with teammates and coaches attending to say their goodbyes.

However, one absence caught the public’s eye — that of Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo. While tributes poured in from the global football community, some criticized the 40-year-old for not attending the funeral in person.

Now, his sister, Katia Aveiro, has spoken out.

“Respect, Not Absence” – Katia Speaks From Experience

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Katia shared a powerful personal story about the loss of their father and how overwhelming public attention made the grieving process even harder.

“When my father died, we couldn’t even leave the chapel due to the media chaos. The attention wasn’t even as crazy back then as it is now,” she wrote.

 

She explained that Ronaldo’s decision to stay away was not due to indifference, but out of respect for Jota’s grieving family. He didn’t want his presence to create a media frenzy and draw attention away from the true purpose of the day — honoring Jota and his brother.

“It is shameful to watch people criticize an absence instead of focusing on a family devastated by loss,” Katia added. “This society is becoming sick with judgment and fanaticism.”

 

Ronaldo’s Emotional Tribute

Although not physically present, Ronaldo shared an emotional tribute on social media soon after Jota’s death was announced:

“It doesn't make sense. We were just together with the national team. You had just gotten married. To your family, your wife, and your children, I send my deepest condolences. Rest in peace, Diogo and André. We will all miss you.”

 

The heartfelt message reflects the personal loss Ronaldo feels, as both he and Jota were recently part of the Portugal squad that celebrated a UEFA Nations League victory on June 8. Jota had also just married his longtime partner, Rute Cardoso, on June 22 — making the tragedy all the more devastating.

Grief Without Judgment

Katia's message is a reminder that grief is deeply personal — and that sometimes, the most respectful thing someone can do is step back.

In moments like these, the focus should remain on remembering those we’ve lost, not questioning how others grieve. Ronaldo, through his tribute and quiet support, has shown his mourning in his own way — and that should be enough.