15 hours ago
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Cristiano Ronaldo has made a touching gesture to the family of late Liverpool star Diogo Jota, gifting them a commemorative watch in honor of Portugal's Nations League victory.
The Portuguese captain arranged for each of his international teammates to receive a personalized timepiece, including one bearing Jota's name and number, which was delivered to his family.
Jota played a key role in helping Portugal secure European success before his tragic passing. The team twice rallied from behind against Spain in the Nations League final, with Jota coming off the bench and goals from Nuno Mendes and Ronaldo forcing penalties. Portugal triumphed, scoring all five penalties.
Ronaldo commissioned the watches from his friend Jacob Arabo, ensuring they were delivered in time for Portugal's first World Cup qualifying match against Armenia. The generous act was revealed by Portuguese outlet SIC.
While the exact cost of the personalized watches remains undisclosed, it is estimated that they will total several hundred thousand euros. Luxury brand JacobandCo announced the Epic X UEFA Nations League 2025 Champions custom edition for the national team, producing 35 pieces featuring "a skeleton dial, bespoke design, and the Portuguese crest."
The company described the watch as being "as exceptional as the champions themselves."
Ronaldo faced criticism for not attending Jota's funeral after the Liverpool star and his brother tragically died in a car crash.
A number of Portugal stars, including Ruben Neves and Bruno Fernandes, were present at the service.
In a recent interview with Piers Morgan, Ronaldo clarified his absence. "Two things; people criticize me a lot," he stated.
"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.
"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. I am not a part of that. 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 criticize. I felt good with my decision."
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