When Portugal’s Francisco Cabral wore a black ribbon during his doubles match on Friday, Wimbledon paid tribute to Diogo Jota following his passing.
After the All England Club relaxed its strict all-white dress code to allow tributes to the Portugal forward, Cabral was allowed to wear the ribbon during the second-round game.
In northern Spain, Jota, 28, and his brother Andre Silva perished in a car crash just before the start of pre-season training.
Jota and Rute Cardoso, who had three children, were married shortly after the accident.
READ MORE: Cristiano Ronaldo, “We’ll All Miss You,” and “We’ll All Miss You” on Diogo Jota’s death.
When Cabral learned the news, he claimed to be driving to Wimbledon and praised Jota as “an idol, such an icon, such a good person.”
“I am aware of what he has gone through, what he has won in his life and career. After losing to Czech duo Petr Nouza and Patrik Rikl with Austrian partner Lucas Miedler, he said, “He’s just very inspiring for me.”
“I just wish his family the best.” I’m hopeful that they can survive because I’m aware of the positive people they are around.
Neal Skupski, a passionate Liverpool fan, had also brought a black armband to his game on Thursday, but he chose not to do so.
The Metropolitan Police force said in a statement that the 32-year-old Ghanaian international’s allegations relate to offences that occurred between 2021 and 2022.
Read more about Diogo Jota’s death in a car crash here:
According to the police, they “follow an investigation by detectives that started in February 2022” following the initial complaint.
Partey’s 32-year-old lawyer said in a statement that he “denies all the charges against him.”
Throughout the course of their three-year investigation, he fully cooperated with the police and CPS, according to attorney Jenny Wiltshire.
He now welcomes the chance to finally clear his name.
My client is unable to comment further because the legal proceedings are currently in progress, she continued.
Also read: King Charles I. David Beckham, a football icon, is awarded the knighthood.
Partey will appear in court in central London on August 5 after being charged  four days after leaving the North London club.
The sexual assault complaint and the rape charges, according to the police, relate to a third woman.
The investigation is being led by Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, who stated that their top concern was providing “support to the women who have come forward.”
Peter Rufai, a former Super Eagles goalkeeper, has passed away! He was 61 years old.  ,
The Super Eagles announced on Thursday that they mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai, a legend in Nigerian football and a 1994 AFCON champion.
Between the sticks and beyond, your legacy lives on. Peter Rufai, rest well.
The renowned shotstopper passed away on Thursday after suffering from illness. Rufai, a member of the Super Eagles’ 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), was nicknamed Dodo Mayana.
In addition, he made his first appearance for the team at the 1994 World Cup, which was also a team event. , widely regarded as one of the nation’s top goalkeepers, who has played for the country for 65 times.
Rufai made history by scoring for Nigeria in the 1993 AFCON qualifiers against Ethiopia with a score of 6–0.
The goalkeeper represented clubs both domestically and internationally, including Belgium’s Dragons de l’Ouémé, Belgium’s Lokeren and Beveren, Netherlands’ Go Ahead Eagles, Farense, and Portugal’s Gil Vicente.
He was given the nickname “Dodo Mayana” for his quick reflexes and acrobatic saves.
The legendary goalkeeper attended the Lagos-based National Institute for Sports, where he received formal coaching instruction, as a result of his desire to get better.
Also read: Diogo Jota, a Liverpool star, passes away in a car crash.
Tributes are Pouring for “A True Giant.”
I’m deeply saddened by the passing of legendary national team goalkeeper Dodo Mayana. The world’s football community is grieving a great deal because of his death.
His immediate family and the Nigerian… picture are in my thoughts. twitter.com/M8cUu7Ckfc
Meanwhile, the ex-Super Eagles shot stopper’s death has quickly received media attention.
Atiku Abubakar, a former vice president, was one of the first to pay tribute to Rufai, describing his demise as a “profound loss.”
“The global football community is deeply grieving his death,” he said. His immediate family and the Nigerian football community extend my sincerest condolences. On his X-tag, Atiku wrote, “May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
“Peter Rufai will always be remembered and will be greatly missed,” he said.
Ahmed Musa, the Super Eagles’ star, also bid him adieu, calling him “a true giant of Nigerian football.”
I’m writing this post to bid farewell to the true champion of Nigerian football, Peter Rufai. I find it hard to believe. Your bravery and unwavering standing between the posts earned us moments of national pride. ⚽
May your spirit continue to inspire generations to come… Twitter.com/OeRwndUpX
“I can’t believe I’m typing this; it’s to bid farewell to Peter Rufai, a true champion of Nigerian football. Your bravery and unwavering standing between the posts earned us moments of national pride. May your spirit continue to inspire Super Eagle fans in the future, Musa wrote on X.
Your legacy soars higher than any other trophy, despite the loss you’ve had. Dodomayan, the country mourns a hero, shouts high. Condolences to your fans, teammates, and loved ones. Rest in peace, legend.
In the second round of Wimbledon, Novak Djokovic defeated British wildcard Dan Evans, who is now seeking a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title, while defending women’s champion Barbora Krejcikova tries to keep her romantic relationship with the All England Club.
Djokovic snagged a spot in second-round action after three stunning upsets at Wimbledon.
With a ruthless 6-3, 6-2, 6-0 victory over Evans on Centre Court, the Serb only needed one hour and 47 minutes to win.
It indicates that I’ve been playing for a while! When told he had just won his 99th Wimbledon match, Djokovic said.
“I still enjoy it.” I’ve gotten a lot from this court. My heart is forever dedicated to Wombledon. Any recorded history here is obviously very special.
Djokovic wants to become the most successful singles player in tennis history, adding to his incredible career.
Since winning his most recent major prize at the US Open in 2023, the 38-year-old is tied with Margaret Court for the record for 24 Grand Slam victories.
And despite facing Carlos Alcaraz in the final two matches of the Wimbledon, Djokovic thinks his best chance to capture the elusive 25th major lies in south-west London.
“I am aware of the history involved.” He said, “I’m considering the big things I can do in this tournament.”
“I won’t be reflecting on it at this time.” When I sip a margarita on the beach with Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer, I believe that will happen!”
Later on Thursday, Krejcikova and Jannik Sinner will head to the court and will undoubtedly avoid any additional giant-killing acts.
Eight of the top ten men’s and women’s singles players lost in the opening round, which is the most by a Grand Slam in the history of the Open.
Only one of the top five women’s seeds, world number one Aryna Sabalenka, is still standing after Italy’s Jasmine Paolini, who finished second in the previous year’s Wimbledon final.
‘Temple of tennis’ ,
Novak Djokovic, a Serbian tennis player, gestures as he addresses the audience after winning a second-round match of men’s singles against Daniel Evans in a Wimbledon, southwest London, match on July 3, 2025. Adrian Dennis/AFP photo:
In her opening match, Krejcikova avoided serious injury and defeated Filipino Alexandra Eala in three sets.
Caroline Dolehide, the Czech 17th seed, will face her in the US in 2019, after she had already defeated her on clay in the US in 2019.
Krejcikova arrived at Wimbledon with only six matches to play in 2025, but she has had a bad year with injuries.
The two-time Grand Slam champion, however, describes her first-round encounter with Centre Court as “very beautiful and just very joyful,” adding that it is “very beautiful and just very joyful.”
She continued, “It’s just great to be back.” It’s simply wonderful to be playing tennis in its temple. It’s just a very, very special place.
The now-retired Andy Murray has taken on the role of the now-retired Jack Draper as the new face of British tennis.
The fourth seed appears content with his new position when he faces Marin Cilic, who was a finalist for the previous year.
The 23-year-old said, “I kind of play every match like my life depends on it.”
Iga Swiatek takes on America’s Caty McNally, while Sinner, who has never reached the Wimbledon final, takes on Australia’s Aleksandar Vukic.
Lucia Bronzetti defeated Russian seventh seed Mirra Andreeva 6-1, 7-6 (7/4) on Court One, who is only 18 years old.
With a 6-1, 6-2 victory over Veronika Kudermetova from Russia, American 10th seed Emma Navarro also advanced to the third round.
The Liverpool supporters quickly praised Diago Jota as being “better than (Luis) Figo,” and the Portuguese champions are now in mourning as a result of his tragic passing on Thursday.
After their car veered off a motorway in northern Spain before going up in flames, the 28-year-old died alongside his younger brother Andre.
Jota, a graduate of the Pacos de Ferreira academy in Porto, established himself as a premier league player for the majority of his professional career.
He never played for the Spanish giants, but his young talent caught the attention of Atletico Madrid, who eventually snapped him up in 2016.
Also available: Reactions to Diogo Jotas Death.
Jota was among the first wave of Portuguese talent to land at then second-tier Wolves after a loan spell at Porto, presumably because of the club’s connections to Jorge Mendes, who had been playing there on loan.
In just three seasons, Jota’s goals helped Wolves move from the top of the league to the Europa League quarter-finals.
Liverpool was attracted to that decision because they paid a £45 million ($62 million) transfer fee for the versatile forward despite the coronavirus pandemic’s impact on the economy in 2020.
Jurgen Klopp once referred to Jota as an “exceptional player, exceptional boy.” He “has everything” for a member of Liverpool’s squad.
Jurgen Klopp watches as Liverpool’s German manager at Anfield in Liverpool, north-west England, on April 2, 2022, during the English Premier League game between Watford and Liverpool. AFP / Paul ELLIS
Jota became the first player to score in their first four home games to earn a profit from Liverpool’s investment in a short amount of time.
Jota’s popularity was highlighted in a chant praising him as a better player than Portugal legend Figo, who played for Real Madrid and Barcelona during his glittering career when people returned to the stands after the pandemic.
He played a significant role in the team that won the League and FA Cup in the year of 2022, only to lose to the Premier League and Champions League in what would have been a record-breaking quadruple.
“Extraordinary person”
Jota made 65 appearances for the Reds overall, with the final one winning the Merseyside derby against Everton in April, drawing Liverpool’s record-equalling 20th English top-flight title.
However, this is not the first time triumph has been overshadowed in Liverpool’s rich history.
On October 26, 2023, Liverpool’s #20 Portuguese striker Diogo Jota celebrates scoring the opening goal at Anfield in north-west England during the UEFA Europa League group E football match between Liverpool and Toulouse. (Photo by Oli SCARFF/AFP)  
Jota’s final public appearance as a player in Merseyside was taking part in the trophy parade through the city, which will be remembered for the 109 people who were hurt when a car ploughed into the crowds.
Fans began dedicating shirts, scarves, and flowers in tribute to the 97 fans who died in the 1989 Hillsborough tragedy, which still ensnared the club in a permanent place.
Cristiano Ronaldo (FILES). Cristiano Ronaldo on Facebook.
One of the people who expressed their shock over the passing of their international team-mate was Cristiano Ronaldo.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner posted on social media, “It makes no sense.” “Diogo and Andre, rest in peace. We will all miss you dearly.
Ronaldo and Jota were a part of the Portugal team that won the Nations League last month, and they both won 49 caps for their country.
Rute Cardoso, Jota’s mother of his three children, and her long-time partner, Jota wed her less than two weeks later.
According to Portuguese football federation Pedro Proenca, “Diogo Jota was an extraordinary person, respected by all team-mates and opponents, and someone with an infectious joy and a reference in his community.”
Jota had his own esports team called Luna Esports, which made him well-known for his love of video games.
In the final, he defeated future team-mate Trent Alexander Arnold in a Premier League match that he won in the pandemic.
Liverpool described his passing as an “unimaginable loss” for both a famous player and a newlywed husband and father of three.
Diogo Jota, the star of Liverpool and Portugal, and his brother Andre also died in a car crash in Spain on Thursday.
The 28-year-old forward’s death, who helped Liverpool capture the Premier League title last year, is the focus of AFP Sports’ analysis of the main reactions:
The tragic passing of Diogo Jota has devastated Liverpool Football Club. — club statement
It is illogical, he said. You and the national team had just got married, and they won the Nations League title last month. I extend my condolences to your family, your wife, and your children, and wish them the best of all. You are certain to be there for them forever. Diogo and Andre, rest in peace. We will all miss you dearly. Cristiano Ronaldo
Read more about Diogo Jota’s death in a car crash here:
“During this difficult time, my thoughts are with his loved ones!” I wish you all well-protected and guided! You’ll Never Walk Alone, JOTA! YNWA! LeBron James, a legend of basketball and shareholder of Liverpool.
The tragic and unexpected news about Diogo Jota’s passing, an athlete who greatly respects Portugal’s name, and his brother. — Luis Montenegro, the prime minister of Portugal.
There are millions of Liverpool fans, but also football fans, who will be shocked by this, but I assure you that I speak for everyone when I say that our first thoughts will be with his family and especially his friends. Keir Starmer, the prime minister of the UK.
“We have lost two champions,” he said. We will do everything in our power to honor Diogo and Andre Silva’s passing every day. Their passing leaves a lasting legacy for Portuguese football. Diogo Jota, the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF), won 49 senior caps and the Nations League title twice, most recently last month.
They assert that we forget people and only lose them when we forget them. I’ll never forget who you are. Former Wolves team-mate Ruben Neves, Diogo Jota.
We are grieving heartily. Throughout his time at Wolves, Diago was adored by his teammates, loved by his teammates, and cherished by all of his associates. He will never forget the memories he made. You will always be missed and remembered, in all likelihood. Diogo Jota played for Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League from 2017 to 2020.
“Heartbreaking news,” This news breaks the hearts of everyone in the Commons, and I wanted to express our condolences to his friend and family in this way. — Lisa Nandy, the British Culture Secretary.
“Every Premier League player is shocked and devastated to learn of Diogo Jota’s tragic passing and his brother Andre. A champion will no longer be remembered in futbol. We’ll continue to be friends and teammates at the club. English Premier League
“Porto is mourning,” We extend our sincere condolences to Diogo Jota’s family and his brother Andre Silva with shock and deep sorrow. Bring peace to you. Diogo Jota and Andre were both youth players during the Porto statement and during the 2016/17 season on loan there.
