Cristiano Ronaldo has sent an encouraging message to Paris Saint-Germain winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia following the Georgian international’s devastating anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, urging him to remain strong as he begins a lengthy recovery process.
The Al Nassr forward offered words of support after PSG confirmed that Kvaratskhelia had ruptured the ACL in his right knee during their 4-2 UEFA Champions League victory over Barcelona on Tuesday.
Ronaldo, who has been Kvaratskhelia’s childhood idol, responded to the 25-year-old’s emotional social media post with a message reminding him not to allow the setback to undermine his confidence or determination.
“The hardest battles in football are often ones nobody sees,” Ronaldo wrote.
“I know that feeling, Kvara. But never forget what brought you this far, and don’t let a difficult moment make you doubt how far you can go.
“Keep that fire on. Your best is still to come.”
The message offered encouragement to Kvaratskhelia at a difficult moment in his career, with the forward facing surgery and an extended period of rehabilitation.
The injury occurred during PSG’s Champions League encounter with Barcelona, when Kvaratskhelia landed awkwardly while attempting to challenge the opposition. He was unable to continue and required assistance from medical staff to leave the pitch.
Following medical examinations, PSG confirmed the severity of the injury and announced that surgery would take place in the coming days. Although the club has not provided a definitive return date, an ACL rupture commonly requires several months of recovery.
Kvaratskhelia subsequently expressed his frustration at the unexpected setback, revealing that he had prepared extensively for the Barcelona fixture and had hoped to avoid an injury.
The former Napoli star also reflected on his habit of praying to finish matches without injury, admitting that he was struggling to understand why the incident had happened to him.
Despite his disappointment, the Georgian forward promised to approach rehabilitation with determination and return stronger for the supporters who have continued to encourage him.
“I know I have to come back stronger for my people who always support me. I won’t let you down; I promise I won’t waste a second,” he said.
Ronaldo’s intervention carries particular significance because of the admiration Kvaratskhelia has expressed for the Portuguese superstar throughout his career. The PSG winger has previously spoken about watching Ronaldo while growing up and learning from his professionalism.
The exchange also highlights the solidarity that often emerges within football when players face serious injuries. Several other footballers have offered Kvaratskhelia encouragement as he prepares for the difficult months ahead.
For PSG, however, the injury represents a substantial sporting setback. Kvaratskhelia has been an influential attacking presence for the French champions, contributing goals, creativity and direct running in important European matches.
His absence will test manager Luis Enrique’s attacking options as the club continues its domestic and continental campaigns. Forward Ousmane Dembélé and captain Marquinhos also sustained thigh injuries during the Barcelona match, adding to PSG’s immediate concerns.
While the recovery process will demand patience and discipline, Ronaldo’s message has reinforced the importance of maintaining confidence through adversity.
For Kvaratskhelia, the immediate priority is surgery and rehabilitation. His return to competitive football will depend on his recovery, but the support from his childhood idol and fellow professionals offers encouragement as he begins the journey back.
