The 16th edition of the Globe Soccer Awards took place today (December 28) which saw Diogo Jota’s parents collect an award in honour of their late son. The emotional moment saw the audience take to their feet with a long applause as Jota’s parents travelled to the Atlantis The Royal hotel in Dubai to accept the award on his behalf.
Known for celebrating achievements in football all over the world, the tribute brought the venue to its feet in an emotional display. Jorge Mendes presented the award to Jota’s parents, Isabel and Joaquim Silva, who were moved to tears.
The couple was later supported by Cristiano Ronaldo, who shared a heartfelt hug with them both.
The recognition came just one day after moving tributes at Anfield, as Diogo Jota’s wife was in attendance with her children for the game against Wolves on Saturday afternoon. Their sons Dinis and Duarte were mascots for the day during an afternoon inside Anfield.
Ahead of the game with Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk in a poignant moment as the two Premier League sides Jota played for faced for the first time since his death. Van Dijk then took Dinis and Duarte over to the Kop and enjoyed a kickabout with them.
Before the match, Wolves fans had gathered at the memorial to Jota outside Anfield – with many leaving tributes. Jota’s wife, Rute Cardoso – whom he married two weeks before the car crash – watched from the stands.
The pair accompanied Reds captain Virgil van Dijk and Wolves goalkeeper Jose Sa on to the pitch as the crowd delivered a rendition of You’ll Never Walk Alone. Liverpool Football Club posted a moving video of Jota’s children as mascots for the day and in the clip it shows Van Dijk giving Rute a hug ahead of the game.
Following the game, Jota’s wife posted on Instagram she posted pictures of her children from the day alongside the message: “From the bottom of my heart, thank you to the club and to all the fans for the love, respect and support shown during this incredibly difficult time. Your messages and gestures have meant more than words can express.”
Liverpool supporters continue to honour Jota by chanting his name during the 20th minute of every fixture, a touching gesture that reflects his squad number, which the club has permanently retired in the striker’s memory.