Wimbledon tennis players have been given permission to deviate from the competition’s traditions following the sudden death of Liverpool striker Diogo Jota, who was 28. Jota was murdered in a car accident in northeastern Spain early Thursday morning, along with his brother Andre.
The football world has been in sorrow following the terrible news, with Liverpool manager Arne Slot and some of Jota’s former teammates issuing messages about the tragedy. However, the impact has moved to other sports, with it being stated that players competing in the tennis grand slam would be able to celebrate the Premier League in a unique way.
Wimbledon Players Allowed to Wear Black Armbands in Memory of Jota
The decision goes against the usual rules regarding attire
Following the deaths of Jota and Silva, Wimbledon organizers have decided to allow players to wear black armbands during their matches to honor the two men and their families. This is an extremely unusual occasion in which the event’s regular strict dress code does not have to be followed.
The All England Club generally has a rigorous all-white dress code, but it has relaxed it by allowing tennis players to wear black armbands during matches in tribute to Jota.
Portuguese tennis player Francisco Cabral was the first to express his desire to honor the striker, having learned of his sudden death while on his way to his first-round doubles match with partner Lucas Miedler, in which they defeated Brit Jamie Murray—brother of two-time singles champion Andy Murray—and Rajeev Ram.
After the game, Cabral praised the Liverpool star and described the scenario as “very sad.”
“I did not know him personally. But I have a friend who knows him. A fantastic person. Obviously, this is incredibly sad news. Not just in sports, but across Portugal. He is such an idol. Such an icon. Such a kind person. I’m extremely sorry to hear what occurred.
“I got the news while driving to Wimbledon.” I hope the best for his family. He had wonderful folks around him. I hope they can make it through it. He was extremely hardworking, given what he had been through and accomplished in his job and life. Very inspiring to me.
“He plays for the national team. One of the top teams in the world. I followed the games and was delighted when he scored. While I was performing, I was saddened by the fact that everyone was in Portugal. I had to play the game. I needed to focus on my game. I’m sad, of course.”
When asked if he would wear a black armband in his second-round encounter, Cabral said that, if possible, he would:
“I’m willing to do it. I need a black strip to put on my shirt. I would be delighted if someone could arrange that for me.
“Of course, I’m open to (a one-minute silence). “He’s a national legend.”
Cabral was not the only tennis great who mourned Jota’s loss; the renowned Rafael Nadal paid tribute to him and his brother on social media.
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