‘It makes no sense': Ronaldo, LeBron and the rest of the world react to Jota's shock death
Jota, 28, was remembered as a national hero and beloved teammate, with Portugal's Prime Minister and UK leaders expressing shock and condolences.
Clubs including Liverpool, Wolves, Porto, and Atlético Madrid, along with the Premier League and FPF, honoured Jota's legacy and impact on and off the pitch.
Portuguese football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo paid tribute to his international team-mate Diogo Jota, who was killed in a car crash on Thursday, saying 'we will all miss you.'
The Liverpool and Portugal star, 28, died along with his younger brother Andre when their vehicle veered off a motorway and burst into flames shortly after midnight in the municipality of Cernadilla in Zamora province, Spain.
'It makes no sense. We were just together with the national team (they won the Nations League title last month), you had just gotten married,' he posted on X.
'To your family, your wife, and your children, I send my condolences and wish them all the strength in the world. I know you will always be with them. Rest in Peace, Diogo and Andre. We will all miss you.'
Jota's death comes only a month after he and Ronaldo were celebrating on the pitch after Portugal won the Nations League title beating Spain on penalties.
Here are some of the main reaction to the death of the 28-year-old forward, who helped Liverpool win the Premier League title last season:
"The news of the death of Diogo Jota, an athlete who greatly honoured Portugal's name, and his brother is unexpected and tragic." - Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro.
"I'm sure I speak for everyone in saying our first thoughts are going to be with his family and his friends in particular, but there are millions of Liverpool fans, but also football fans, who will also be shocked by this." - British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
"We have lost two champions. The passing of Diogo and Andre Silva represents irreparable losses for Portuguese football, and we will do everything to honor their legacy daily." - Portuguese Football Federation (FPF), Diogo Jota won 49 senior caps and won the Nations League title twice, most recently last month.
"They say we only lose people when we forget them. I will never forget you!" - Diogo Jota's former Wolves team-mate Ruben Neves.
"We are heartbroken. 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. You will be truly missed, and always remembered." - Premier League side Wolverhampton Wanderers where Diogo Jota played from 2017-2020.
"Heartbreaking news. The whole house (of Commons) is heartbroken by this news and I wanted to send our sympathies to his friend and family on behalf of the whole house." - British Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy."Everyone at the Premier League is shocked and devastated to learn of the tragic passing of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre. Football has lost a champion who will be forever missed. We will continue to support our friends and colleagues at the club." - English Premier League.
"Porto are in mourning. It is with shock and deep sorrow that we send our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva. Rest in peace." - Porto statement, Diogo Jota spent a season there on loan (2016/17) and Andre was a youth player.
"Atletico de Madrid are deeply saddened by the tragic news of the passing of Diogo Jota, former player of the club, and his brother Andre." - statement from La Liga side where Diogo Jota played 2016-18.
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