Cristiano Ronaldo Sends Heartfelt Message to Liverpool Fans Days After Passing of Newborn Son

• Ronaldo has broken his social media silence with a heartfelt message to Liverpool fans
• The striker has been grieving in recent days following the death of his newborn son
• A minute’s applause was observed during Manchester United’s trip to Anfield on Tuesday by both sets of supporters
• Ronaldo thanked the Liverpool fans for the incredible support, saying that it would never be forgotten

Cristiano Ronaldo has thanked Liverpool supporters for the support shown to him during the game against Manchester United on Tuesday, April 19.

Manchester United were thrashed 4-0 in that game but one beautiful moment was a minute’s applause which was held in the seventh minute of the game for Cristiano and his family.

Ronaldo was a notable absentee from the game, and understandably so, as he was grieving the passing of his newborn son.

Taking to social media on Thursday, April 21, the 37-year old said:

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"One world… One sport… One global family… Thanks, Anfield,"

"Me and my family will never forget this moment of respect and compassion."

He also accompanied the message with a video of the Liverpool fans applauding him during the game.

Joint statement

On Monday, April 18, Ronaldo and his partner Georgina Rodriguez released a joint statement announcing the death of their newborn, adding that the safe delivery of the other twin – a baby girl, had given them the strength to cope during the tough times.

Ronaldo’s family members, including his sister has also taken to thank the public and football fans for the support shown to his brother unanimously despite rivalries in sport.

"It is with our deepest sadness that we have to announce that our baby boy has passed away," the statement read.

"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.

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Cristiano returns to training

On Wednesday, Sports Brief reported of how Cristiano Ronaldo has shocked the football world by returning to train with his Manchester United teammates just two days after the death of his son.

The 37-year-old striker missed the trip to Anfield after he was offered compassionate leave by Manchester United after the sad news was announced on Monday.

Manchester United host Arsenal on Saturday, April 23 in a game that is considered a key determinant in top-four race in the English Premier League.