Police launch probe into death of World Cup star Jayden Adams aged 25 | Football | Sport
The Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder was found dead at a property in Cape Town in South Africa on Saturday. A police statement read: “Cape Town central police registered an inquest for investigation following the discovery of the body of a 25-year-old male on Saturday.”
Adams’ family are still awaiting the results of an autopsy and his dad, Juanito, told South African TV news station eNCA: “As you all know, it was an untimely death. The family is struggling to process it.
“It won’t be easy to carry on. People say it will become easier, but it won’t. You just learn to live with it.”
Sad footage has emerged on social media of Adams sat down in the changing room, watching on as his Bafana Bafana team-mates celebrated the win over South Korea. He watched on quietly as players danced around him, celebrating booking their place in the knockout stages of the competition.
Adams featured in all of South Africa’s group stage games at the World Cup, but was an unusued substitute for the 1-0 defeat to Canada in the round of 32.
Memelodi Sundowns shared a tribute to the midfielder and said: “Mamelodi Sundowns are devastated by the tragic passing of Jayden Adams.
“It is with heartfelt sorrow that Mamelodi Sundowns can confirm the passing of highly talented Bafana Bafana midfielder, Jayden Adams. The Chairman and the Motsepe Family, the Board of Directors, Technical Team, Players, Management, Staff, Supporters of Mamelodi Sundowns FC & the entire Yellow Nation express their deepest condolences to the family and friends as we mourn the loss of Jayden.
“We pray that the Almighty God comforts and strengthens the Adams family, his friends and everyone that knew him. Sundowns respectfully ask that the family’s privacy be honoured as they grieve this profound loss.”
The South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) also paid tribute, and said: “The South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) is devastated by the untimely passing of Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder Jayden Adams,” the statement read.
“Jayden had only recently represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage and distinction. His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family, teammates, clubs, the football fraternity and the country at large.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the Adams family, Mamelodi Sundowns, Stellenbosch FC, Bafana Bafana and all those whose lives he touched.
“South African Football has lost a gifted player, a proud servant of the game and a young life that still had so much to offer. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
