“Thank you for everything you are” - Cristiano Ronaldo pens birthday message to mum on New Year’s eve

Cristiano Ronaldo has penned a birthday message for his mother, Dolores Aveiro, on social media as she turns 71 on Wednesday, December 2025. The Portuguese superstar is one of Dolores’ four children, whom she raised alongside his late father, Jose Dinis Aveiro.

While Jose couldn’t witness Ronaldo’s fulfil full potential before his death in 2005, Dolores has remained a constant source of support throughout her son's career. She has been spotted on numerous occasions in the stands cheering Ronaldo and frequently captured being emotional during his matches.

Celebrating the 71st year of his mother coming into the world, Ronaldo wrote on his Instagram:

“Many Happy Returns of the Day Mama! Thank you for everything you are and always being there for me. I love you so much ❤️”

With the influence of Cristiano Ronaldo, Dolores Aveiro has amassed a large following on Instagram, with a staggering 4.5 million followers on the platform at the time of writing.

Prior to today’s birthday wish, Ronaldo has consistently shown public affection towards his mother, even when there isn’t a special occasion. In 2014, he posted a picture of himself and Dolores sitting on a sofa while holding a book together.

“My mother is, without any doubt, a mother courage. I feel very thankful and proud to be her son and to have her in my life,” he captioned the post.

Beyond being one of the greatest players to play the sport, the Al-Nassr forward is widely renowned for being family-oriented.

When Cristiano Ronaldo dedicated his success to his mother

Cristiano Ronaldo had humble beginnings, with his parents taking on menial jobs to provide him and his siblings. The going apparently got tough after his father’s demise.

The five-time Ballon d’Or instead saw those hardships as motivation and fought his way to the top. As per reports, Dolores worked as a cleaner during Ronaldo’s formative years.

During his time at Juventus, Ronaldo dedicated his success to his mother, saying:

“She brought me up by sacrificing her life for me. She would sleep hungry at night but made sure that I had something to eat. She worked 7 days a week to make me good enough to become a footballer. I dedicate my success to her.”

Edited by Ezekiel Olamide