World Cup pays tribute to South African soccer star Jayden Adams
Tributes have poured in from around the world following the death of Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams.
A moment of silence was observed at Miami Stadium before Saturday's World Cup quarter-final between Norway and England in honour of the 25-year-old midfielder.
Adams, who represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, was found dead at a property on Military Road in Schotsche Kloof, Cape Town, on Friday.
Police have since opened an inquest to investigate the cause of his death.
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has meanwhile extended his condolences to the Adams family.
“On behalf of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, I extend my deepest condolences to Jayden’s family, his young daughter, his teammates at Mamelodi Sundowns, his fellow Bafana Bafana players and coaching staff, the South African football Association, and the entire football fraternity.”
Adams' death comes after the passing of former South African Under-18 player and AS Béziers Hérault footballer Luqobo “Bibo” Makwedini.
The 20-year-old allegedly died after collapsing at the end of a Friday morning training session in France. The club said he suffered a cardiac arrest.
President Cyril Ramaphosa also shared condolences to both families, saying his thoughts are with them during this difficult time.
“It is particularly tragic that we are suffering the loss of two outstanding, young athletes at a time when our nation continues to immerse itself in the FIFA World Cup tournament, as well as the Springboks’ and Springbok Women’s matches against Scotland and the USA Eagles in Pretoria.”
The President further thanked both players for bringing the country “joy and victories”.
“May their souls rest in peace,” said Ramaphosa.
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