In a profoundly moving moment at the 2025 Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai, the prestigious “Special Award” was bestowed posthumously to honor the memory of Portuguese football sensation Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away earlier that year. The ceremony, held amid the glittering backdrop of global football elites, paused for a solemn tribute as Jota’s parents, Joaquim and Isabel Silva, accepted the accolade on behalf of their son. The award, presented by super-agent Jorge Mendes, served as a heartfelt recognition of Jota’s contributions to the sport, his indomitable spirit, and the legacy he left behind at just 28 years old. Fans worldwide were left in tears, reflecting on the sudden loss of a player whose talent lit up pitches from Porto to Liverpool.

Diogo José Teixeira da Silva, known simply as Diogo Jota, rose to prominence as a versatile forward whose speed, skill, and clinical finishing made him a fan favorite. Born on December 4, 1996, in Massarelos, Portugal, Jota began his professional career with Paços de Ferreira before catching the eye of Atlético Madrid in 2016. Loan spells at Porto and Wolverhampton Wanderers honed his abilities, leading to a permanent move to Wolves in 2018 where he formed a dynamic partnership with Raúl Jiménez. His breakthrough came in the Premier League, dazzling with goals and assists that propelled Wolves into European contention. In 2020, Liverpool signed him for £41 million, a transfer that proved transformative. Under Jürgen Klopp, Jota adapted seamlessly, scoring crucial goals in domestic and Champions League campaigns, including a hat-trick on his European debut for the Reds. His international career with Portugal included appearances at Euro 2020 and the 2022 World Cup, where his energy off the bench was invaluable.

Tragedy struck on July 3, 2025, when Jota and his younger brother, André Silva, perished in a horrific car crash in northwestern Spain. The accident occurred near Zamora, where their Lamborghini veered off the road following a tire blowout during an overtaking maneuver. Jota, who was driving, and André, 25, were en route to a family gathering. The news sent shockwaves through the football community, with tributes pouring in from teammates, rivals, and fans. Liverpool observed a minute’s silence at Anfield, and Portugal’s national team wore black armbands in subsequent matches. His death highlighted the fragility of life, prompting discussions on road safety and the pressures faced by athletes.

The Globe Soccer Awards, an annual gala celebrating football’s finest, chose to immortalize Jota with this special honor, emphasizing his impact beyond statistics—102 goals in over 300 club appearances and a role in Liverpool’s trophy hauls. Mendes, a close associate, delivered an emotional speech, recalling Jota’s humility and drive. Joaquim and Isabel, visibly moved, stood on stage clutching the award, their presence a poignant reminder of personal loss amid professional acclaim. The event also recognized other stars: Erling Haaland as Best Men’s Player, Aitana Bonmatí as Best Women’s, and Real Madrid as Best Club.

This tribute underscores football’s tight-knit family. Jota’s legacy endures through youth academies inspired by his journey and charitable efforts he supported. As 2025 drew to a close, the award not only commemorated his achievements but also united the sport in grief and gratitude. For fans, it’s a bittersweet nod to a star taken too soon, whose “SIUUU” celebrations—borrowed from idol Cristiano Ronaldo—echoed his joy for the game. In honoring Jota, Globe Soccer ensured his memory remains eternal, inspiring future generations to chase dreams with the same fervor.