Wimbledon allow players to break from strict dress code in tribute to Diogo Jota

Wimbledon organisers have made the heartfelt move to allow players to wear black armbands in order to pay tribute to late Liverpool star Diogo Jota. Athletes at SW19 are traditionally bound by an all-white mandate, but they will be permitted a break in order to send a message should they wish on Thursday.

The shocking news has shaken the world of sport, with Spanish police having confirmed Jota's death following a tragic car accident near Zamora in Spain. The Premier League footballer and his brother, Andre Silva, both lost their lives in the crash.

Wimbledon is known for its stern all-white dress code, but it has eased the rules to honour the beloved Portuguese player. The Mirror US reported competitors will be seen with black armbands as they play on the grass courts, joining the global sports community in mourning.

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Portuguese tennis ace Francisco Cabral had already expressed his desire to pay tribute to Jota – who was just 28 and got married only 11 days ago – in his upcoming match at Wimbledon. And he gave a sorrowful account of the situation following a doubles victory over Jamie Murray and Rajeev Ram.

"I have seen the very sad news," said the 28-year-old. "The guy is a big name, not just in Portugal but in the world. He was a great human being with a nice family and three kids. My best wishes to them all. For his family, it is very tough to recover from that."

Having failed to procure an armband in time for his last game, Cabral resolved to wear one in the next round. 

The tragic news of Jota's untimely death circulated among local outlets before Liverpool confirmed the tragedy themselves.

"Liverpool Football Club are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota," read the club's statement. "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 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. We will continue to provide them with our full support."

Tributes have also poured in from several Premier League clubs, including Liverpool's title rivals Manchester City and local adversaries Everton. City said everyone at the club was "shocked and saddened to learn about the devastating development.

"We send our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends and everyone at Liverpool Football Club at this difficult time," said the club. "Rest in peace, Diogo."

A similar sentiment was echoed by Everton. The Merseyside club posted a statement that read: "Everyone at Everton is deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva. Our thoughts are with their family and friends at this sad time and everyone at @liverpoolfc."

Jota's last appearance for Liverpool was in May when the English champions drew 2-2 with Crystal Palace on the day they hoisted the Premier League trophy. The Portugal international featured in 26 league matches in the 2024/25 season, netting six goals altogether.

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