Cristiano Ronaldo sends message of support to Lionel Messi after father's death

Lionel Messi posted a heartfelt message on Instagram mourning the loss of his father, Jorge Messi, who passed away on Saturday after a prolonged illness.

The football superstar's poignant post on social media garnered significant attention, particularly a comment from his longtime rival, Cristiano Ronaldo. Despite their intense competition on the field for Real Madrid and their respective national teams, Ronaldo extended his support to Messi during this challenging period.

Ronaldo's message read: "A huge hug to you and yours in these tough times, Leo. Much strength." The comment quickly received over 20,000 likes and 600 replies, highlighting the widespread respect for the gesture.

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A huge hug to you and yours in these tough times, Leo. Much strength.

Beyond Ronaldo, many other prominent figures in the sports world, including former players like David Beckham, and celebrities such as Soledad Pastorutti and Marley, joined in offering messages of solidarity. Football clubs where Messi has played, including Barcelona, also expressed their condolences and support for Messi and his family.

Soledad Pastorutti shared her emotional response to Messi's letter, stating, "Leo dear, you made me cry a lot with your words. As a great friend says, when someone we love very much leaves us, we die a little too... life is like that... your father had the good fortune to be your companion, to trust and see you succeed, and he left with the certainty of knowing you are a great human being... the pain is great but love is stronger, we love you."

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Leo dear, you made me cry a lot with your words. As a great friend says, when someone we love very much leaves us, we die a little too... life is that... your father had the good fortune to be your companion, to trust and see you triumph and he left with the certainty of knowing you are a great human being... the pain is great but love is stronger, we love you.