Why Cristiano Ronaldo Skipped Diogo Jota's Funeral: Explanation by Sister Katia Aveiro

Cristiano Ronaldo’s sister, Katia Aveiro, explained why the Portugal captain did not attend Diogo Jota’s funeral. Jota, who tragically lost his life in a car accident alongside his brother Andre Silva on July 3, was laid to rest on Saturday near his hometown of Porto. Several of his teammates and coaches attended the service, but Ronaldo, now playing for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, chose not to attend to avoid overshadowing the proceedings.

In an emotional Instagram story, Katia shared her experience of dealing with the media attention at her father's funeral, expressing her support for her brother's decision. She criticized the focus on Ronaldo's absence rather than honoring the family's loss. Ronaldo paid tribute to Jota on social media, offering condolences to his family and remembering their time together in the national team.

Ronaldo and Jota were part of the Portugal squad that won the UEFA Nations League, and Jota had recently married his childhood sweetheart. Messages of sympathy have poured in from across the globe for the tragic loss.