Rafa Nadal leads tributes to footballer Diogo Jota after fatal car crash

Rafa Nadal has led tennis’ tributes to Portuguese footballer Diogo Jota after the Liverpool forward and his brother André Silva were killed in a car accident early on Thursday morning.

The 28-year-old was travelling through Zamora in Spain when a failed tyre caused them to lose control, killing both at the scene. Jota had been heading for Santander to board a ferry back to Liverpool ahead of the club’s return to pre-season training.

The death, which came less than two weeks after Jota’s wedding, shocked the sporting world with tributes extending beyond football.

In tennis, Nadal was among the first to pass on his condolences, describing it as “painful news.”

“What sad and painful news,” Nada tweeted. “All my love, affection, and support to his wife, children, family, and friends during such a difficult time.

“Rest in Peace, Diogo Jota and André Silva.”

Nadal was later joined by his compatriot Carlos Alcaraz who posted on Instagram: “Rest in peace Diogo and Andre. My sincere condolences to your loved ones” alongside a black and white image of the player.

Martina Navratilova also tweeted: “So tragic… RIP Diogo… and Andre”

At Wimbledon, Portuguese player Francisco Cabral was permitted to break the strict dress code and wear a black armband in remembrance.

“I don’t know him personally but I have a friend that knows him, he was a great guy,” Cabral said.

“Very, very sad news, not only in the sports world but in Portugal overall, because he’s such an idol, such an icon, such a good person.

“I got the news when I was driving to Wimbledon. I just wish all the best for his family. I know they have good people around them so I hope they can get through it.

“I know what he’s been through, what he conquered through his career and through his life. So he’s just very inspiring for me.”

Football manager Jürgen Klopp, who signed Jota to Liverpool in 2020 said “Diogo was not only a fantastic player, but also a great friend, a loving and caring husband and father! We will miss you so much!”

Cristiano Ronaldo, Jota’s teammate with Portugal, said: “Doesn’t make any sense. Just now we were together in the national team, just now you were 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.”

A Liverpool statement read: “Liverpool Football Club are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota.

“The club have been informed the 28-year-old has passed away following a road traffic accident in Spain along with his brother, Andre.

“Liverpool FC will be making no further comment at this time and request the privacy of Diogo and Andre’s family, friends, teammates and club staff is respected as they try to come to terms with an unimaginable loss.”