South Africa and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25, just weeks after representing his country at the FIFA World Cup.
South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, announced the player’s death in a statement on Saturday, describing it as a devastating loss to the nation’s football community.
“It is with profound shock and a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing of Jayden Adams.
“South African football has lost one of its brightest young talents, and our nation mourns alongside his family, his teammates and the millions of supporters who watched him grow from a promising academy prospect into a full Bafana Bafana international,” McKenzie said.
The South African Police Service confirmed that an investigation has been opened after the body of a 25-year-old man was discovered at a house in Schotschekloof, a suburb in central Cape Town, on Saturday morning.
McKenzie urged the public to avoid speculation surrounding the circumstances of Adams’ death.
“The cause of Jayden’s passing has not yet been confirmed, and I wish to appeal to members of the media and the public to exercise restraint and compassion, and to refrain from speculation while his family and Mamelodi Sundowns are given the space and privacy they need at this incredibly difficult time.
“Any official information will be communicated by the appropriate parties in due course,” he added.
Adams’ death has sent shockwaves through South African football, with tributes pouring in for the talented midfielder, whose career had continued to flourish at both club and international levels.
