Rute Cardoso: The Private Life of Diogo Jota’s Wife as the Football Star Dies Tragically at 28

Rute Cardoso & the family

Liverpool striker Diogo Jota and his brother die in car crash days after his private wedding to long-time partner Rute Cardoso.

The football world is in mourning following the tragic death of Diogo Jota, the talented Liverpool and Portugal national team forward, who passed away at just 28 years old in a devastating car accident alongside his younger brother, André Jota, also a professional footballer.

The fatal accident occurred in Zamora, Spain, where the brothers' car veered off the road and caught fire, claiming both their lives. The shocking news has left fans, teammates, and the football community heartbroken.

A Love Story That Began in Their Teens

Diogo Jota leaves behind his wife, Rute Cardoso, with whom he had only recently tied the knot. The couple, who met as teenagers in Gondomar, Portugal, shared a lifelong bond that saw them grow from childhood sweethearts into devoted life partners and parents to three young children.

Their relationship, built on years of friendship and love, culminated in a private Catholic wedding ceremony on June 22, 2025, attended by close family and friends. Despite their years together and the family they had built, they chose to formalize their union just days before Diogo’s untimely passing.

A Devoted Wife and Mother Away from the Spotlight

Rute Cardoso, 29, is known for her discretion and low public profile. Throughout Diogo’s meteoric rise from playing local football in Porto to becoming an international star, Rute remained steadfastly by his side often away from the limelight.

A mother of three, she focused her time on raising their children and supporting Diogo's career, rarely giving interviews or making public appearances. Her Instagram, followed by over 70,000 people, is filled with tender family moments photos of her, Diogo, their children, and their beloved dogs. She also frequently shared snapshots from their travels across France, Switzerland, Germany, the UAE, the Maldives, and Spain, often accompanying her husband to football matches.

An Outpouring of Grief and Support

Since news of Jota’s passing broke, Rute’s social media has been flooded with messages of condolence and solidarity from fans worldwide. The family, who appeared inseparable in life, now faces an unimaginable loss.

The tragic accident not only robbed football of one of its most promising talents but also left behind a young family shattered by grief. The entire football community from Liverpool FC to the Portuguese Football Federation has expressed profound sorrow over this devastating event.

A Legacy of Love and Dedication

As fans, teammates, and friends remember Diogo Jota for his brilliance on the field, his enduring love story with Rute Cardoso stands as a testament to loyalty, family, and quiet strength. Together since their teenage years, they built a life full of love and promise cut heartbreakingly short.

Rute, now widowed just days after her wedding, faces an outpouring of global

sympathy as she navigates this unimaginable tragedy.

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