Cristiano Ronaldo Announces the Loss of His Newborn Son During Childbirth

Soccer player Cristiano Ronaldo and his girlfriend Georgina Rodríguez have suffered the loss of their newborn son.

Ronaldo, 37, announced the heartbreaking news on his social media on April 18. “It is with our deepest sadness we have to announce that our baby boy has passed away. It is the greatest pain that any parents can feel. Only the birth of our baby girl gives us the strength to live this moment with some hope and happiness,” he wrote. “We would like to thank the doctors and nurses for all their expert care and support. We are all devastated at this loss and we kindly ask for privacy during this very difficult time. Our baby boy, you are our angel. We will always love you.”

The couple shared their pregnancy news to Instagram on Thursday, October 28, writing in the caption at the time, “Delighted to announce we are expecting twins. Our hearts are full of love—we can’t wait to meet you.” Alongside the caption Ronaldo posted a picture of the couple holding up the sonograms. They later announced they were expecting boy-girl twins. At the time of the pregnancy announcement, he also posted a picture of himself spending time with his older kids, 11-year-old son Cristiano Jr., 4-year-old twins Eva Maria and Mateo and 3-year-old daughter Alana Martina.

Losing a child is unbelievably difficult. If you or someone you know is grieving a loss, remember you’re not alone and don’t be afraid to reach out for help. For guidance on how to work through the pain and move forward, lean on your support network and contact a grief therapist who can help.