The world of football regrets the loss of Diogo Jota, the talented Portuguese striker who died alongside his brother André Silva in a tragic car accident in Zamora, Spain. The accident, which occurred at dawn on July 3, 2025, shook not only the Portuguese team and Liverpool FC, but the whole sports world. Amid this deep sadness, Cristiano Ronaldo, captain of Jota’s Portuguese team and longtime companion, made an extraordinary demonstration of solidarity that touched the hearts of many.
Ronaldo, known for his emotional proximity to teammates, sent a special gift to Diogo Jota’s family that Jota’s wife Rute Cardoso described as “wonderful.” In a moving statement, she shared: “Ronaldo did something wonderful for my family, we are very grateful…” The exact details of this gift have not been fully disclosed, but the revelations that have come to light so far shocked fans and the media. It is believed that, in addition to offering financial support, Ronaldo also made a personal gesture, reflecting the close friendship between him and Jota.
Diogo Jota, who married his longtime companion, Rute Cardoso, on June 22, 2025, leaves three young children. The marriage, held a few weeks before the tragic accident, was a moment of happiness for the family, which now faces an immeasurable loss. Ronaldo, who is also a father, expressed deep solidarity in his public message on social networks: “It makes no sense. We were together in the national team, you had just married. To your family, your wife and your children, send my condolences and wish them all the strength of the world. I know you will always be with them. Rest in peace, Diogo and André.” These words, full of deep sadness and sincerity, reflect the narrow bond between the two players, who played together for Portugal since 2019 and won two titles from the UEFA League.
The news of Jota’s death shocked the world of football. The 28-year-old, known for his professionalism and dedication, has consolidated himself as an indispensable player in Liverpool since he arrived at Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020. He scored 65 goals and gave 26 assists in 182 matches. His field performances, coupled with his humility, made him popular with fans and teammates. The accident, in which the brothers’ car lost control due to a flat tire and caught fire, was described as an unimaginable tragedy.
Ronaldo, who rarely makes personal statements in public, made collective pain visible with his gestures and words. According to sources, the present could have been a combination of a generous donation to the future of children and a personal memory of Jota, such as an autographed shirt or a video registering shared moments with the selection. Such gestures are typical of Ronaldo, who often demonstrated his generosity and empathy in the past, especially in times of necessity.
Diogo Jota’s funeral and his brother André took place on July 5 in Gondomar, near Porto. Several Liverpool FC stars, including Captain Virgil Van Dijk and coach Arne Slot, as well as players from the Portuguese team such as Rúben Dias and Nelson Semedo, attended the ceremony. The bereaved, including Jota’s wife Ruth, carried the coffins to the church while the bells played and the world of football remained silent. Liverpool has opened a condolence book in Anfield, and fans from around the world left condolence messages.
Ronaldo’s gesture has played not only the Jota family, but also the fans and the football community around the world. At a time when sport is marked by rivalries, this act of humanity demonstrates the depth of ties between players. Jota’s legacy remains alive in his achievements on the field and in the love of his family, and Ronaldo’s gift will be remembered as a symbol of friendship and compassion.
