A prominent gamer off the pitch

The tragic passing of Diogo Jota in a car accident in Spain shocked the football world, but it also resonated deeply with the gaming scene. The Liverpool striker was more than just a fan of EA SPORTS FC—formerly known as FIFA. He was one of the most recognizable footballers in the gaming world, competing at a professional level and even reaching the top ranks in online play.

In April 2020, Jota went an impressive 30-0 in FUT Champions, placing among the top 20 global players. That was no fluke: he continued to earn elite rankings in the following months and eventually qualified for the FIFA 22 Global Series Qualifier, one of the most competitive tournaments in Europe. He debuted in that tournament against Gorilla, the 2017 world champion, and though he lost, he proved his skill on the virtual pitch.

Iconic goal celebrations and esports leadership

Jota’s love for gaming extended to his goal celebrations. After scoring twice against Southampton in the Premier League, he famously sat down and mimicked playing with a joystick. In another match versus West Ham, he formed a triangle with his hands—referencing the icon that hovers over players in EA SPORTS FC.

Beyond personal play, Diogo Jota launched his own esports organization, initially under his own name before rebranding to Luna Esports. He also participated in major gaming events, including the Esports World Cup 2024 in Saudi Arabia, where he attended Counter-Strike 2 tournaments and mingled with top players.

At just 28 years old, Jota had crafted a legacy that spanned both sport and gaming. His passion for FIFA and esports made him a beloved figure in two communities—and both are mourning the loss of a truly unique talent.