Rute Cardoso, the widow of former Liverpool and Wolverhampton Wanderers star Diogo Jota, has shared a poignant family update eight months after her husband's tragic death in a car crash. The emotional post comes as both football clubs prepare for another tribute during their upcoming FA Cup clash.
Family Holiday in Thailand
Cardoso recently posted several images from a family holiday in Phuket, Thailand, where she is raising the couple's three children following Jota's passing in July 2025. The photos show their two sons and daughter enjoying time in a swimming pool, with eldest son Dinis proudly wearing his father's Liverpool number 20 shirt.
Football Tributes Continue
Liverpool and Wolves paid tribute to Jota with a minute of applause during the 18th minute of their recent Premier League match, referencing the number Jota wore during his time at Molineux. With the two teams set to meet again in the FA Cup on Friday night, further commemorations are expected eight months after the tragedy.
The Tragic Accident
Diogo Jota and his younger brother Andre Silva died in a car crash on July 3, 2025, in the Zamora region of Sanabria, Spain. The Liverpool forward had been traveling with his brother when the devastating accident occurred, leaving behind his wife and three young children.
Emotional Support from Football Community
Cardoso has received overwhelming support from the football community, including heartfelt messages from partners of Jota's former teammates. Larissa Peereira, wife of ex-Liverpool player Roberto Firmino, and Julia Vigas, partner of former Red Thiago, both commented on her recent posts with messages of love and support.
The family recently visited Hong Kong where Cardoso received a book of condolences filled with tributes to her late husband. One message read: "Thanks for everything Diogo, rest easy mate, in loving memory the lad from Portugal."
Return to Anfield
Cardoso returned to Anfield in December 2025 when Liverpool faced Wolves, where her two sons served as mascots. She expressed gratitude on Instagram, writing: "From the bottom of my heart, thank you to the club and to all the fans for the love, respect and support shown during this incredibly difficult time."
Valentine's Day Tribute
On Valentine's Day, Cardoso posted a photo of her late husband alongside the song "If I Would Have Known" by Kyle Hume, continuing to honor his memory through social media tributes. It remains unconfirmed whether she will attend Friday's FA Cup match at Molineux.
The football community continues to rally around the Jota family, with fans and former colleagues offering ongoing support as Cardoso navigates life as a single mother to three young children while preserving her husband's legacy in the sport he loved.
