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Football legend Diego Maradona passed away of a heart attack at his home in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on 25 November 2020, at the age of 60.
The Argentine professional football player and manager was hospitalized on November 2 and after a day, he underwent brain surgery to treat a hematoma. Following a 9-day-long observation, the former footballer was released from the hospital, however, it was declared that he died of myocardial infarction.
The Argentine Football Association confirmed Maradona’s passing with a note shared through social media, that says “its deepest sorrow for the death of our legend” and meanwhile President Alberto Fernández declared three days of national mourning in honor of him.
Once the devastating news spread, notable names of the football world flooded their social media account to express their sorrow and to pay tribute to Maradona, who is marked as one of the greatest players of all time.
Former football star David Beckham was quick to lead a tribute to “The Golden Kid.” He went to his verified Instagram account and posted a photo of himself with Maradona and wrote:
“A sad day for Argentina and a sad day for football as we celebrate the greatness of what this man gave us… Someone that played with passion, spirit and was nothing less than a pure genius… I was so excited to meet Diego and we will all miss him 🇦🇷Rest In Peace 🇦🇷”
One of the greatest players, Lionel Messi also took to Instagram; as Beckham did, he uploaded a photo of himself with the football legend and sent his condolences to all his family and friends by writing:
“A very sad day for all Argentines and for football. He leaves us but does not leave, because Diego is eternal.”
As for Portuguese footballer, Cristiano Ronaldo wrote on Instagram that he is saying goodbye to a friend and an eternal genius. He described Maradona as an “unparalleled magician” who “leaves a legacy without limits and a void that will never be filled.”
Soccer icon Pele also did not forget to pay tribute to his “great friend.” The 80-year-old former football star wrote:
“There is still much to be said, but for now, may God give strength to his family members. One day, I hope, we will play football together in heaven.”
According to UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin‘s statement, this week, European matches will be starting with a minute’s silence in honor of Maradona.
