Ronaldo's Mother Cries Over Son's National Team Exit, Laments Portugal's Disrespect
SingTao · 2 SOURCES1 day ago2 MIN

Summary
Cristiano Ronaldo's mother Dolores Aveiro has spoken out emotionally about her son's controversial departure from the Portugal national team after being benched during a Nations League match. The 71-year-old mother broke down in tears upon learning of the incident, criticizing the federation for not showing proper respect to her son, who has scored a record 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal. Ronaldo, now 41, responded by scoring for Al-Nassr in his first match since the controversy, finishing the game in tears while addressing fans.
Key Points
- Ronaldo left Portugal's national team camp on September 27 after being unused in a 2-1 Nations League win over Norway
- His mother Dolores Aveiro, 71, told Portuguese media she cried upon hearing the news and said the federation doesn't know how to treasure their greatest player
- The five-time Ballon d'Or winner published a nearly 2,000-word statement accusing coach Jorge Jesus of broken promises and destroyed trust
- Ronaldo scored in his first game back on October 10, helping Al-Nassr defeat Al-Diriyah 3-0, bringing his career total to 980 goals
- The Portuguese Football Federation announced punishments on October 9 but specifics regarding Ronaldo's penalty remained under consideration
Why It Matters
Ronaldo's departure from international football marks one of the most contentious moments in his legendary career, raising questions about how aging superstars should be treated by national federations . Despite Portugal winning their Nations League group without him, the situation underscores the tension between institutional authority and player power at the highest levels of the sport .
Ronaldo's departure from international football marks one of the most contentious moments in his legendary career, raising questions about how aging superstars should be treated by national federations . Despite Portugal winning their Nations League group without him, the situation underscores the tension between institutional authority and player power at the highest levels of the sport .