1:44 PM PT -- The Pope is paying tribute to Diego Maradona in the best way he can -- praying for the guy.
As you may know, Pope Francis is from Argentina -- same as Maradona.
A Vatican spokesperson says when Pope Francis learned of the soccer star's death, he reflected "fondly to the times they met in these years and remembers him in prayer."
The spokesperson also noted Pope Francis had been praying for Maradona recently after learning of his medical issues.
Additionally, the President of Argentina has reportedly declared 3 days of mourning for Maradona.
9:33 AM PT -- TMZ Sports talked to U.S. soccer legend Alexi Lalas ... about the passing of Diego Maradona.
The sports world is reacting to the news ... with soccer legend Pele paying tribute to his friend.
"What sad news," Pele said Wednesday. "I lost a great friend and the world lost a legend. There is still much to be said, but for now, may God give strength to family members. One day, I hope we can play ball together in the sky."
Olympics superstar Usain Bolt also shared his condolences ... posting a pic with Diego on his Twitter.
RIP to legend #Maradona 🙏🏿 pic.twitter.com/U9KdyRhGBE
— Usain St. Leo Bolt (@usainbolt) November 25, 2020
Cristiano Ronaldo posted a heartfelt farewell ... calling Maradona a friend, genius, magician and "one of the best ever."
"Today I say goodbye to a friend and the world says goodbye to an eternal genius."
"He leaves too soon, but leaves a legacy without limits and a void that will never be filled. Rest in peace, ace. You will never be forgotten."
Diego Maradona -- widely considered one of the greatest soccer players of all time -- has died at his home in Argentina, according to his reps.
He was 60.
Maradona, who was still recovering after emergency brain surgery earlier this month, reportedly suffered a heart attack at his home Wednesday morning and was not able to pull through ... according to Argentinian news outlet Clarin.
His death was confirmed by Maradona's longtime lawyer and agent Matias Morla.
Back in the day, Maradona was considered one of the best soccer players in the world -- leading Argentina to a World Cup in 1986.
In fact, his "Hand of God" goal against England during the '86 World Cup is one of the most famous moments in soccer history.
Maradona was tracking down a ball and slyly used his hand to punch it over the goalkeeper into the net -- while pretending his hand never actually touched it. His acting job worked and the goal counted!
After his playing career, he struggled with drug addiction, alcohol abuse and health issues -- and had been hospitalized multiple times.
But, he was still widely loved in his home country -- and the fans came out in force to show love just a few weeks ago when he was being transported to the hospital for brain surgery.
Maradona being transported to another hospital where he will undergo brain surgery. (Via @TyCSports) pic.twitter.com/HGQ7euYutf
— ANDRES CANTOR (@AndresCantorGOL) November 3, 2020
As we previously reported, doctors discovered a blood clot on Maradona's brain that required emergency treatment ... and he went under the knife on Nov. 3.
In the days that followed, Maradona's doctor said the outlook was good and he expected the star to make a successful recovery.
But, something went terribly wrong on Wednesday ... and now the world is mourning Maradona's death.
RIP.