Madonna was an emotional wreck as she dined with pals recently in the wake of her adoption heartbreak, according to a new report.

The queen of pop dined with close friend Stella McCartney and several others in an attempt to lift her spirits after a Malawian judge ruled against her adoption of four-year-old Mercy James on Friday.

But what was meant to be a distraction from the shocking twist of events which transpired last week, is said to have turned into a teary night on the town.

An onlooker told the Mirror, "She dug around in her handbag for the photo and was excitedly showing it off to Stella. But it was clearly too much, the moment overcame her.

"Stella told her to be strong as she tenderly gave her a hug and a shoulder to cry on."

A friend close to the star adds, "The last week has been one of the hardest in her life. She's really relying on her friends to help her through."

See Madonna through the years below