Cristiano Ronaldo posted a touching tribute to his baby son on Instagram after scoring Manchester United's goal in their 3-1 defeat to Arsenal on Saturday afternoon.
The 37-year-old played his first Premier League game since announcing the tragic death of his baby son on Monday evening. Ronaldo pointed towards the sky after scoring at the Emirates and later shared that image, accompanied by a love heart emoji.
United have also thanked Arsenal after their fans rose in the seventh minute to applaud Ronaldo in a show of solidarity. The Portuguese forward wears the No7 jersey for club and country. Liverpool supporters did the same at Anfield on Tuesday evening.
"A classy gesture from Arsenal supporters, with applause for Cristiano in the seventh minute," tweeted United's official account.
Ronaldo thanked Liverpool fans for their support and will undoubtedly appreciate Arsenal's actions, too. He wrote: "One world... one sport.... one global family... thanks, Anfield. Me and my family will never forget this moment of respect and compassion."
Ronaldo and his partner Georgina Rodriguez, 28, announced they were expecting twins in October. The couple's baby girl survived the birth. "It is with our deepest sadness we have to announce that our baby boy has passed away," they wrote earlier this week.
"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. 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."
Millions have offered their condolences. United's Instagram account wrote: "Your pain is our pain. Sending live and strength to you and the family at this time, Cristiano." Piers Morgan added: "Heartbreaking news. My deepest condolences to you and all your family."
Ronaldo and Georgina brought their baby girl home earlier this week. "Home sweet home," they wrote on Instagram. "Gio and our baby girl are finally together with us. We want to thank everyone for all the kind words and gestures.
"Your support is very important and we all felt the love and respect that you have for our family. Now it’s time to be grateful for the life that we’ve just welcomed into this world."
Ronaldo's goal on Saturday was his 100th in the Premier League and his 22nd since rejoining United from Juventus last summer. The result leaves the Red Devils sixth in the table, six points behind Arsenal in fourth having played a game more.
West Ham in seventh and Wolves in eighth can leapfrog United if they win their games in hand. United will qualify for the Europa League if they finish fifth or sixth, while a seven-place finish will see them compete in the Europa Conference League next term.
