Rute Cardoso, widow of Liverpool soccer star Diogo Jota, has been thrust into emotional turmoil after receiving his personal belongings, including a poignant memento he carried until his final moments. Jota, 28, died alongside his brother André Silva in a car crash in Spain on July 3, 2025, just 11 days after marrying Cardoso. The discovery of a cherished item among his possessions has left Cardoso, mother to their three children, seeking psychological treatment, with sources close to her revealing she feels she is “losing my mind” from grief.

According to The Sun, Portuguese authorities returned Jota’s belongings to Cardoso on August 1, 2025, including a small silver locket he always wore, engraved with the initials of their children—Dinis, Duarte, and Mafalda. The locket, a gift from Cardoso for their first anniversary, was found in Jota’s pocket at the crash site on the A-6 motorway near Madrid. A family friend told Daily Mail that seeing the locket “broke Rute completely,” as it symbolized Jota’s devotion to his family. “It was with him always, even in his last breath,” the friend said, noting Cardoso’s struggle to cope with the loss.

Cardoso’s emotional state has been further strained by recent events. Her Instagram post on August 3, marking 31 days of mourning, revealed a chilling note Jota left under their nursery floorboards: “Protect our family, no matter what.” The locket’s return, coupled with the note and a woman’s disruptive claims at Jota’s July 5 funeral asserting her son was his heir, has overwhelmed Cardoso. A source told Mirror she began therapy to process the compounded trauma, with sessions focusing on managing her grief and protecting her children’s well-being.

Fans on X have rallied around Cardoso, with posts like, “Rute’s strength for her kids is inspiring, but this locket must be heartbreaking.” Liverpool FC, where Jota played since 2020, issued a statement via Sky Sports, expressing support: “Rute and the children are in our hearts.” The club plans a tribute during their August 17 match against Crystal Palace, honoring Jota’s legacy as a prolific striker and devoted father.

The locket’s significance has resonated deeply, symbolizing Jota’s unwavering family ties. Cardoso’s therapy, per Express, aims to help her navigate the emotional weight of these mementos while raising her young children. As investigations into the crash and the funeral claims continue, Cardoso’s focus remains on honoring Jota’s memory. The football community, from teammates like Trent Alexander-Arnold to global fans, continues to offer support, ensuring Cardoso and her children are not alone in their grief.