Cristiano Ronaldo has led a glowing list of tributes to Diogo Jota following the confirmation of the death of Diogo Jota in car accident two weeks after his wedding.
Ronaldo, who played in Jota’s final match last month, penned an emotional statement in reaction to tragic news of the death of his compatriot.
In the early hours of Thursday, 28-year-old Jota tragically lost his life in a car accident, which also claimed the life of his brother, Andre.
A Liverpool statement read: “Liverpool Football Club are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota.
Liverpool Football Club are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota.
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) July 3, 2025
“The club have been informed the 28-year-old has passed away following a road traffic accident in Spain along with his brother, Andre.
Five-time Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldo was one of many football stars who paid tribute to Jota, whose passing occurred only two weeks after marrying his long-time partner, Rute Cardoso, in Portugal.
Jota and Ronaldo shared the pitch 32 times for the Portuguese national team, with their latest appearance together taking place in the Nations League last month.
Ronaldo and Jota shared the pitch for seven minutes during the semi-final win over Germany, and both played, albeit separately, in the penalty shootout triumph over Spain that ultimately proved to be the latter’s final ever game.
Ronaldo wrote on X,: “It doesn’t make sense. Just now we were together in the national team, just now you had got married.
“To your family, your wife, and your children, I send my condolences and wish them all the strength in the world.
“I know you’ll always be with them. Rest in Peace, Diogo and André. We’ll all miss you.”
Ronaldo’s emotional tribute followed a similar message from fellow countryman Pepe, who retired last year after Euro 2024.
He said: “It was with great sadness that I received the news of the passing of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre.
“An untimely, painful loss that leaves us all poorer – as colleagues, as friends and as football lovers.
“At this moment of deep sorrow, I send the family, friends and all those who loved them my most sincere condolences.
May you find strength in the love and memories you left behind.
“May you rest in peace.”
His former Wolves teammate Matt Doherty shared a picture of the pair speaking together on the pitch during their time at Molineux.
He said: “I remember exactly what you were saying to me.
“Can’t believe this. What a special player and person.
“Distraught for all your family and friends.”
Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher added on X: “Devastating news about Diogo Jota & his brother Andre this morning.”
“Thoughts are with everyone of their family & friends, especially his wife Rute & their three lovely kids.”
Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher added on X: “Devastating news about Diogo Jota & his brother Andre this morning.”
“Thoughts are with everyone of their family & friends, especially his wife Rute & their three lovely kids.”
Rio Ferdinand posted: “Absolutely heartbreaking. “My thoughts and prayers go out to Diogo Jota, Andre Silva, their family & friends!”
Jota’s ex-teammate at Wolves, Ruben Neves, has also posted on Instagram, paying tribute to the Liverpool star.
He wrote: “They say we only lose people when we forget them. I will never forget you!”
Wolves have released a statement following the death of their former player Diogo Jota and his brother.
“We are heartbroken,” Jota’s former club posted on X.
“Diogo was adored by our fans, loved by his teammates and cherished by everyone who worked with him during his time at Wolves. The memories he created will never be forgotten.
“Our hearts go out to the family, friends and loved ones of Diogo and his brother, Andre.
“You will be truly missed, and always remembered.”
Another of Jota’s former clubs, Atlético Madrid, also wrote on social media: “Atlético de Madrid is shocked by the tragic news of the passing of former club player Diogo Jota and his brother André.
“We send our deepest condolences to their family and loved ones. May they rest in peace.”
