07/11/26 05:32:00
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07/11 16:22 CDT South Africa World Cup midfielder Jayden Adams dies at the age
of 25
South Africa World Cup midfielder Jayden Adams dies at the age of 25
JOHANNESBURG (AP) --- South Africa midfielder Jayden Adams, who played at the
World Cup, has died. He was 25.
His death was confirmed by Gayton McKenzie, South Africa's minister of sport,
arts and culture, in a statement on Saturday.
"It is with profound shock and a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing
of Jayden Adams, midfielder for Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana, at the age
of 25," McKenzie posted on X.
"South African football has lost one of its brightest young talents, and our
nation mourns alongside his family, his team-mates and the millions of
supporters."
Adams helped South Africa reach the World Cup knockout stage for the first time.
Further details of his death were not given.
"The cause of Jayden's passing has not yet been confirmed," McKenzie said. "I
wish to appeal to members of the media and the public to exercise restraint and
compassion, and to refrain from speculation."
A moment of silence in honor of Adams was held ahead of the World Cup
quarterfinal between Norway and England in Miami Gardens, Florida, on Saturday.
Adams started in South Africa's first Group A games against Mexico and Czech
Republic. McKenzie said Adams played the second game only hours after learning
that his grandmother had died. He came on as a second-half substitute in the
third game against South Korea.
Adams played several seasons for Stellenbosch before joining Mamelodi Sundowns
last year. He helped the club win the CAF (African) Champions League this year.
"Death has cruelly stolen one of our own. It has robbed our nation of a
remarkable footballer," the South African Football Players Union posted on X.
"We will forever remember his humility, his extraordinary talent and the pride
with which he represented South Africa. Rest in eternal peace, Jayden. You will
never be forgotten."
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and the South African Federation of
Trade Unions also expressed their condolences.
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