The world of football regrets the loss of Diogo Jota, the talented Portuguese striker who died with his brother André Silva in a tragic car accident in Zamora, Spain. The accident, which occurred at dawn on July 3, 2025, shocked not only the Portuguese team and Liverpool FC, but to the whole world of sport. In the midst of this deep pain, Cristiano Ronaldo, captain of the Portuguese team and Jota’s partner for many years, offered an extraordinary sample of solidarity that moved many.
Ronaldo, known for his emotional closeness with his teammates, sent a special gift to the family of Diogo Jota, that his wife, Cardoso Rute, described as “wonderful.” In a moving statement, he shared: “Ronaldo has done something wonderful for my family, we are very grateful …” The exact details of this gift have not been made public, but the revelations that have come to light so far have stunned fans and media. It is believed that, in addition to offering economic support, Ronaldo also had a personal gesture, reflecting the close friendship that unites him to Jota.
Diogo Jota, who married his partner of many years, Cardoso Rote, on June 22, 2025, leaves three young children. The wedding, which took place a few weeks before the tragic accident, was a moment of happiness for the family, which now faces an immeasurable loss. Ronaldo, father of a family, expressed his deep compassion in his public message on social networks: “It makes no sense. We were together in the selection, you just got married. To your family, your wife and your children, I send my condolences and I wish you all the strength of the world. I know you will always be with them. Rest in peace, Diogo and André.” These words, loaded with deep sadness and sincerity, reflect the narrow link between both players, who played together with Portugal since 2019 and won two UEFA Nations League titles.
The news of the death of Jota shocked the world of football. The 28 -year -old, known for his professionalism and dedication, had established himself as an indispensable player in Liverpool since his arrival from the Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020. He scored 65 goals and gave 26 assists in 182 games. His great performance in the field, together with his humble character, made him popular between the fans and his companions. The accident, in which the brothers’ car lost control by a burst tire and exploded in flames, was described as an unimaginable tragedy.
Ronaldo, who rarely makes personal statements in public, made visible collective pain with his gesture and words. According to Fuentes, the gift could have been a combination of a generous donation for the future of children and a personal memory of Jota, such as a signed shirt or a video that captured the moments shared with the national team. These types of gestures are typical of Ronaldo, who has frequently demonstrated his generosity and empathy in the past, especially in times of necessity.
The funeral of Diogo Jota and his brother André took place on July 5 in Gondomar, near Porto. Numerous stars of Liverpool FC, such as Virgil Van Dijk captain and coach Arne Slot, as well as Portuguese internationals such as Rúben Dias and Nelson Semedo, attended the ceremony. The mourners, including Jota’s wife, Rute, took the coffins to the church while the bells sounded and the world of football was silent. Liverpool opened a book of condolences in Anfield, and fans from all over the world left condolence messages.
Ronaldo’s gesture moved not only the Jota family, but also the fans and the world football community. At a time when sport is plagued by rivalries, this act of humanity demonstrates the depth of ties between players. Jota’s legacy endures in his achievements on the pitch and in the love of his family, and Ronaldo’s gift will be remembered as a symbol of friendship and compassion.