Tributes pour in after death of Bafana Bafana star Jayden Adams
South Africa is mourning the death of Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams. Tributes have been led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie and the football fraternity, honouring the 25-year-old's achievements and legacy.
Tributes are pouring in for Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns football player Jayden Adams.
The Department of Sport and Club Mamelodi Sundowns confirmed the 25-year-old's death on Saturday.
Adams' football journey began at Stellenbosch FC.
He was the club’s first graduate to sign a professional contract, in 2020.
He joined Mamelodi Sundowns in 2025, where he won the Betway Premiership.
Two weeks ago, Adams featured in all three of Bafana Bafana's 2026 FIFA World Cup group matches, helping South Africa reach the Round of 32 for the first time.
Sport department spokesperson, Stacey-Lee Khojane says Adams also showed remarkable resilience, playing against Czechia just hours after the death of his grandmother.
"The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has expressed his profound sadness at the passing of Adams. The minister says South Africa has lost one of its brightest young football talents. Jayden's journey was an inspiring one. The minister extends his heartfelt condolences to Jayden's family, his young daughter, his teammates, SAFA, and the entire football fraternity, and appeals to the public and the media to refrain from speculation and allow the family the privacy they deserve during this difficult time."
Mamelodi Sundowns says they are mourning the loss of the talented footballer.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has also expressed his condolences describing Adams' passing as a tragic loss.
Spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya says the president's thoughts are with Jayden's teammates in Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns.
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