'Greatest pain that any parents can feel': Ronaldo announces death of newborn son

Portuguese football star and Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo said in a statement on social media that one of his newborn twins has passed away.

Ronaldo, who was expecting twins with his wife Georgina Rodriguez, said in the statement that the baby boy died, while she gave birth to a girl.

“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,” the statement, which was signed by both Ronaldo and Rodriguez, said.

“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 at this very difficult time. Our baby boy, you are our angel. We will always love you,” Ronaldo further said in the statement.

Many football players and clubs released statements condoling the death of Ronaldo’s son.

The Portugal national team condoled Ronaldo’s loss and said in a tweet, “A lot of strength, captain.”

Ronaldo’s present Premier League club Manchester United said on Twitter, “Your pain is our pain, @Cristiano Sending love and strength to you and the family at this time.”

Ronaldo’s former club, Real Madrid, said in a statement released on its official site, “Real Madrid CF, its president and its Board of Directors deeply regret the death of one of the children that our beloved Cristiano Ronaldo and his partner, Georgina Rodríguez, were expecting. Real Madrid joins the pain of the whole family and wants to show them all our love and affection.”