KUCHING: The football world is mourning the sudden passing of Liverpool forward Diogo Jota, who tragically died alongside his brother André.
The Portuguese star was admired not only for his sharp finishing and tireless energy on the pitch but also for the heart and humility he brought to the game.
Jota had recently married his partner, Rute, and was a proud father of three – making the loss even more painful.
His life, both as a player and a family man, was just beginning and has now been heartbreakingly cut short.
In Sarawak, local Liverpool fans are grieving deeply.
From his iconic joystick celebrations to his crucial goals, supporters here remember Jota as a true Red who gave everything for the shirt.
His number 20, which the club announced will be immortalised in honour of Jota, will live on in Anfield’s memory.
Edner Patrick Stephen said he was “devastated by his passing”, calling it a heartbreak beyond words.
“As a Liverpool fan, his impact on the pitch and that infectious joystick celebration will never be forgotten.
“What makes this even more heartbreaking is that he had just married Rute and had three young children.
“He embodied everything we love about Liverpool – passion, determination and understanding what the red shirt meant.
“His number 20 will forever be remembered at Anfield. You’ll Never Walk Alone (YNWA), Diogo Jota,” he said.
However, Greg Riyis added that he is still struggling to accept that Jota’s really gone, saying the pain feels unreal and heavy to bear.
“My heart goes out to his family. I can’t even begin to imagine the pain they must be feeling right now.
“No words could ever ease that kind of sorrow. Gone too soon, but never forgotten. YNWA Jota.” Greg said.
Long-time Liverpool fan Nichol Shim recalled precious memories of seeing Jota play in person – moments he now treasures even more in the wake of this heartbreaking loss.
“Diogo Jota, or should I say Diogoal the Slotter. Where would Liverpool be without a player like him?
“I read the news of his passing first thing in the morning here in the UK, and I was absolutely devastated.
“I had the pleasure of seeing him score live at the London Stadium during my Christmas break. I also saw him during the club’s title victory parade, celebrating with Kelleher on the bus,” Nichol said.
“To lose a life so soon – after winning the Premier League, the Nations League, and just getting married – is beyond words.
“He will be remembered by many, and especially in Liverpool, the city of ‘open arms’, as Klopp once said. You’ll Never Walk Alone, Diogo and André.”
Nigel Shim, too, reflected on Jota’s contributions on the field, remembering his flair, joy and instinct as a player who delivered when it mattered most.
“I had the pleasure of watching him play twice back in 2022 – against Brentford and Norwich. I’ll never forget his goals, especially during that wild game against Spurs.
“His flair, his gaming and Pacman celebrations brought joy to us all,” said Nigel.
“And then came that solo goal against Everton last season, which sadly became his last ever goal for us. We’ll sorely miss his flair, his radiant joy, and his killer instinct in front of goal.
“He led us to victory. He wore the No. 20. And he gave us our Title No. 20. Rest in peace, Jota and André. YNWA.”
As the Liverpool community reels from this unimaginable loss, fans in Sarawak and around the world are united in grief, honouring the memory of a player who brought so much light – on and off the pitch.
“You’ll Never Walk Alone, Diogo Jota.”
