Tributes pour in for football legend Diego Maradona

Diego Maradona, one of the world’s most popular football legends who was also a man of controversy passed away on Wednesday night at the age of 60. Reportedly, Maradona suffered a heart attack. He rose to fame and became a world football icon after Argentina lifted the world cup in the year 1986.

According to reports, Maradona had completed a surgery for blood clot in his brain almost two weeks back. A few hours before death, he complained to his nephew about feeling uneasy. But even before paramedics could arrive and help him, Maradona breathed his last at his home.

Argentinian president Alberto Fernandez has declared three days of mourning in the country. Millions of his fans across the world paid their tributes to Maradona. Survived by five children, Maradona’s funeral was held in a government house with state honors.

Football players Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi were amongst those who paid their tributes.

Brazilian football legend Pele said, “Sad news today. I have lost a dear friend, and the world has lost a legend. There is much more to say, but for now may God give his family strength. One day, I hope, we will play soccer together in the sky”.

Maradona, who had a huge fan following in India has visited the country multiple times. Sportsmen and leaders from India took to their social media to pay tributes.

“Diego Maradona was a maestro of football, who enjoyed global popularity. Throughout his career, he gave us some of the best sporting moments on the football field. His untimely demise has saddened us all. May his soul rest in peace”, tweeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“RIP Diego Maradona. He changed the way the beautiful game of football is played. True genius”, tweeted Indian cricket Captain Virat Kohli.

Former Indian cricket captain and BCCI President Sourav Ganguly tweeted, “My hero no more ..my mad genius rest in peace ..I watched football for you”.

“Have followed Maradona’s game & life for years. Maidaan brought me closer to the game. He was a football legend and a passionate sportsman. Sad to see him go. RIP Diego Maradona”, tweeted actor Ajay Devgn.

Watch in Sign Language