Rute Cardoso is a Portuguese homemaker, marketing graduate, and the late wife of footballer Diogo Jota. While Jota made headlines with his football skills, Rute was the quiet strength behind him raising their three kids, managing home life across countries, and staying away from the media glare. Her emotional journey, from young love to heartbreaking loss, has touched many across the football world.
Rute Cardoso Wiki/Bio
| Full Name | Rute Cardoso |
| Date of Birth | 1997 |
| Age | 28 years (as of 2025) |
| Profession | Homemaker, Marketing Graduate |
| Hometown | Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal |
| Current Residence | Porto, Portugal |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Nationality | Portuguese |
Physical Details
| Height | 5’6″ (168 cm) |
| Weight | Approx. 56 kg |
| Eye Color | Hazel Brown |
| Hair Color | Medium Golden Blonde |
Rute Cardoso Early Life and Love Story
Rute Cardoso was born and raised in Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal. In 2012, while pursuing a marketing degree and working at a riverside café, she met Diogo Jota, then a young footballer at the Poss Deferrera Academy. Their casual chat over coffee turned into Monday walks along the Douro River, and soon, a long-lasting relationship began.
While Jota moved across clubs — from FC Porto to Atletico Madrid, and then Wolverhampton Wanderers — Rute stayed grounded. She completed her marketing studies and later moved to England in 2017, shifting her work online to stay by Jota’s side. Despite the limelight surrounding Jota, Rute chose a quiet presence, supporting him behind the scenes.
Rute Cardoso Marriage and Family
After ten years of togetherness, Diogo proposed to Rute on a cliff in Algarve in 2022. The couple tied the knot on 22 June 2025 in a small church near Porto, surrounded by close family and friends. Their three children — Dinis (2021), Duarte (2023), and a baby girl born in late 2024 — were part of the heartfelt ceremony.
Rute and Diogo’s marriage was built on mutual respect and shared responsibilities. While he focused on his football, she handled home logistics, from managing apartments to planning travel across countries.
Tragic Loss of Diogo Jota
Only 11 days after their wedding, tragedy struck. On 3 July 2025, Diogo Jota and his younger brother André Silva died in a car crash on the A-52 motorway in Spain. The news broke just hours after Rute had posted a joyful wedding montage on Instagram with the caption, “A day we will never forget.”
The video quickly turned into a public tribute. Stadiums dimmed their lights, and makeshift shrines appeared in Porto and outside Anfield. Fans and footballers flooded social media with condolences, many addressing Rute directly with words like “Força Rute”.
Rute Cardoso’s Grief and Strength
In a heartfelt statement, Rute shared her disbelief over losing Diogo just days after marriage. She recalled their last hours filled with laughter and plans for the future. “I wanted to grow old with him… but fate said otherwise,” she said with tearful eyes.
Despite the pain, Rute has chosen to stay strong for her children. Supported by family and clubs like Liverpool FC, she now lives in Porto, focused on raising Dinis, Duarte, and their baby girl with the love and memories of their father.
Life Behind the Scenes
Rute never chased fame, preferring the quiet corners of stadium boxes to the spotlight. She loves to travel and is often seen exploring places like Greece and the Maldives. A fitness lover, Rute enjoys working out and doing adventurous activities like parasailing and horse riding. She also adores animals and has three pet dogs.
Rute Cardoso Memorable Moments
| Event | Year | Details |
| First Meeting | 2012 | Met Diogo at a café during college in Porto |
| First Child | 2021 | Gave birth to son Dinis |
| Second Child | 2023 | Welcomed second son Duarte |
| Baby Girl | 2024 | Their youngest daughter was born |
| Marriage | 2025 | Married Diogo Jota on 22 June in a private ceremony |
| Diogo’s Death | 2025 | Lost her husband in a car crash on 3 July |
Rute Cardoso Net Worth and Lifestyle
- Estimated Net Worth – Approx. 1–2 crore INR, primarily from Diogo’s estate, endorsements, and investments.
- Estimated Annual Expenses – Covered by family savings, Diogo’s football earnings, and club support.
- Support – Liverpool FC and Portuguese football associations are offering emotional and financial assistance.
FAQs About Rute Cardoso
Who is Rute Cardoso?
She is the late wife of footballer Diogo Jota and mother of their three children.
How did Rute Cardoso meet Diogo Jota?
They met at a café in Porto in 2012 when both were young and studying.
When did Rute and Diogo get married?
They got married on 22 June 2025, just days before his sudden death.
How many children does Rute have?
She has three children – two sons, Dinis and Duarte, and a baby daughter.
Is Rute active on social media?
She maintains a private profile but has shared personal milestones like her wedding video.
Rute Cardoso Recent Updates
- 3 July 2025: Lost her husband Diogo Jota and brother-in-law André Silva in a tragic car crash.
- Instagram Wedding Video: Her 1-minute recap post became a viral tribute to love and loss.
Public Support: Received condolences from football clubs, players, and fans worldwide. - Emotional Statement: Spoke publicly about her grief and determination to raise her kids with strength.