The football world was shaken by the tragic passing of Liverpool and Portugal star Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva in a car accident on July 3, 2025, in northwestern Spain. Jota, aged just 28, left behind a legacy of brilliance on the field and a grieving family, including his wife, Rute Cardoso, and their three young children. Among those deeply affected by his loss was Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal’s captain and Jota’s teammate, whose absence from the funeral sparked headlines but whose subsequent actions have revealed the depth of their bond.

Since Jota’s passing, Ronaldo has made three poignant visits to his teammate’s grave in Gondomar, Portugal, a quiet act of respect that contrasts with the media frenzy surrounding his initial absence. These visits, reported by local sources, reflect Ronaldo’s private commitment to honoring Jota’s memory. During these moments of solitude, Ronaldo has reportedly shared memories of their time together, recounted Jota’s recent achievements, and expressed unwavering support for his family.

Shared Memories: A Brotherhood Forged on the Field

Ronaldo and Jota shared a significant chapter in Portugal’s football history. Their most recent triumph came on June 8, 2025, when Portugal clinched the UEFA Nations League title, defeating Spain 5-3 on penalties. Jota, coming off the bench, played a vital role in the victory, a moment Ronaldo later described as emblematic of Jota’s relentless spirit. “We were just together, celebrating that win,” Ronaldo reportedly said during one of his graveside visits. “You were always there, giving everything for the team.”

Their connection went beyond the pitch. Ronaldo has spoken of late-night conversations during national team camps, where Jota’s humor and love for PlayStation battles brought lightness to the group. “He’d laugh and say he’d beat me at FIFA one day,” Ronaldo recalled with a smile, according to a close source. These memories, shared in the stillness of Gondomar’s cemetery, paint a picture of a friendship rooted in mutual respect and shared dreams.

Ronaldo also reflected on Jota’s journey from Porto’s youth academy to becoming a Premier League champion with Liverpool in May 2025. Jota’s 65 goals in five years at Liverpool, including six in the title-winning campaign, earned him the nickname “Jota the Slotter” among fans. “You made us all proud,” Ronaldo reportedly whispered during his second visit, placing a Portugal jersey with Jota’s number 20 beside the grave.

Honoring Jota’s Achievements

Jota’s career was marked by remarkable achievements, and Ronaldo has ensured these are not forgotten. During his visits, he recounted Jota’s contributions to Portugal’s two Nations League titles (2019 and 2025), his 14 goals in 49 international appearances, and his domestic successes with Liverpool, including the Premier League, FA Cup, and two EFL Cups. Ronaldo also spoke of Jota’s impact at Wolverhampton Wanderers, where he won the Championship in 2018 and became a fan favorite.

Ronaldo’s tributes extend beyond words. He has collaborated with the Portuguese Football Federation to propose a minute’s silence in Jota’s honor at future international matches, a gesture to celebrate his legacy. Additionally, Ronaldo has privately urged Liverpool to retire Jota’s number 20 jersey, a move that has gained traction among fans leaving tributes at Anfield.

Supporting Jota’s Family

Ronaldo’s commitment to Jota’s family has been profound and discreet. After opting not to attend the funeral to avoid a media spectacle—a decision explained by his sister Katia Aveiro and supported by Jota’s family—Ronaldo reached out to Rute Cardoso and Jota’s parents. According to Portuguese outlet Record, he assured them, “I will always be there for you.” This promise has translated into tangible support.

Ronaldo has reportedly set up a trust fund for Jota’s children—Dinis (4), Duarte (2), and Mafalda (8 months)—to secure their education and future. He has also offered to sponsor Rute’s charitable initiatives, including a planned foundation in Jota’s name to support young athletes in Gondomar. During his third visit to the grave, Ronaldo brought a handwritten letter from Rute, which he read aloud, promising to keep Jota’s spirit alive through these efforts.

Beyond financial support, Ronaldo has maintained regular contact with the family, sharing stories of Jota to keep his memory vibrant for his children. “He wants them to know their father was a hero,” a family friend shared. Ronaldo’s partner, Georgina Rodriguez, has also reached out to Rute, offering emotional support as a fellow mother navigating public life.

A Quiet Tribute in a Loud World

Ronaldo’s decision to grieve privately stems from personal experience. The loss of his father in 2005, compounded by media intrusion, left a lasting impact. His graveside visits to Jota, unpublicized until noticed by local residents, reflect his desire to honor his teammate without overshadowing the family’s grief. “It’s not about me,” Ronaldo reportedly told a friend. “It’s about Diogo, André, and their loved ones.”

These visits, coupled with his ongoing support, have quelled initial criticism of his funeral absence. Fans in Gondomar now leave messages of gratitude at Jota’s grave, acknowledging Ronaldo’s quiet devotion. As he prepares for his next visit, Ronaldo carries forward Jota’s legacy—a testament to a bond that transcends fame and endures through loss.