Former Real Madrid defender Pepe has revealed a heartwarming story about his close friend and former teammate, Cristiano Ronaldo, who once stayed overnight at the hospital to support Pepe and his family after a serious head injury.
The incident happened during a match against Valencia in 2012 when Pepe collided with Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas, suffering a head injury that left him unconscious and in need of immediate medical attention. The Portuguese international was rushed to the hospital, where he spent the night under medical supervision.
Pepe recently shared details of the emotional experience while speaking to Portuguese radio network Renascenca. “It’s a memory I will never forget, even though I lost part of my memory from that game,” he said. “When I woke up in the hospital, I was still wearing my Real Madrid kit and had no idea what had happened. I later found out that Cris had been at the hospital all night with my family.”
At the time, Pepe’s wife was just days away from giving birth to their first daughter, Angeli. With his parents also present, the family faced a stressful and uncertain night. According to Pepe, Ronaldo stayed by their side the entire time, offering support and reassurance.
“Cris wasn’t with me in the hospital room because I was unconscious, but he stayed with my family all night,” Pepe recounted. “He was there, giving them strength and making sure they weren’t alone. It just shows the affection we have for each other.”
The two players enjoyed an illustrious career together, spending eight years at Real Madrid and nearly two decades playing side by side for the Portuguese national team. Their bond extended beyond the pitch, with moments like this highlighting the deep friendship between the football legends.
Pepe retired from professional football in August 2024, concluding a remarkable 22-year career. Reflecting on Ronaldo’s gesture, he expressed his gratitude, saying it was a testament to their enduring connection.
Cristiano Ronaldo, known for his fierce competitiveness on the field, has often shown a compassionate side off it, earning admiration not just for his skills but also for his loyalty and generosity toward friends and teammates.
