Francisco Cabral wore a black ribbon during his match at Wimbledon on Friday in tribute to ‘icon’ Diogo Jota after the footballer’s tragic death.
It was announced on Thursday that Liverpool’s Portuguese forward Jota had died in a car accident in Spain at the age of just 28.
Following his death, Wimbledon has allowed tennis players to break the strict all-white dress code at the All England Club to pay respect to Jota.
Follow Metro’s live blog for full coverage of Diogo Jota’s death
Cabral was among the players spotted paying tribute to Jota on Friday, wearing a black ribbon on his top during a men’s doubles match.
The Portuguese tennis star, ranked world No.40 in doubles, was in second-round action on Court 5 alongside Austrian partner Lucas Miedler.
The duo, who beat Jamie Murray and Rajeev Ram in the first round, were defeated by Czech pair Petr Nouza and Patrik Rikl by a score of 6-3 7-6.
‘Diogo Jota was such an idol’
‘Very, very sad news, not only in the sports world but in Portugal overall, because he’s such an idol, such an icon, such a good person,’ Cabral said on Thursday.
‘I got the news when I was driving to Wimbledon. I just wish all the best for his family. I know they have good people around them so I hope they can get through it.
‘I know what he’s been through, what he conquered through his career and through his life. So he’s just very inspiring for me.’
How strict is Wimbledon’s all-white dress code?
Wimbledon has arguably the strictest dress code of any sporting event, with competitors told they ‘must be dressed in suitable tennis attire that is almost entirely white’.
The guidelines, which were set in 1963, even specify that ‘white’ does not include off-white or cream. The rules apply ‘from the point at which the player enters the court surround’.
Klopp left ‘heartbroken’ over Jota’s death
Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has issued an emotional statement over the death of Jota, declaring himself ‘heartbroken’.
‘This is a moment where I struggle,’ Klopp said on social media. ‘There must be a bigger purpose, but I can’t see it!
‘I’m heartbroken to hear about the passing of Diogo and his brother Andre.
Diogo was a not only a fantastic player, but also a great friend, a loving and caring husband and father.
‘We will miss you so much! All my prayers, thoughts and power to Rute, the kids, the family, the friends and everyone who loved them!
‘Rest in peace – Love J.’
