The Police force in Cape Town, South Africa have opened an investigation into the death of South Africa midfielder, Jayden Adams, whose body was found at a home in the Schotsche Kloof neighbourhood shortly after he returned from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 25-year-old’s death was confirmed on Saturday by the South African Football Players Union. Authorities have not disclosed the cause of death, with investigations ongoing.
Adams featured in three matches during South Africa’s World Cup campaign, starting in the 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic and the 2-0 defeat to Mexico before coming off the bench in a 1-0 victory over South Korea. He was an unused substitute as Bafana Bafana were eliminated by Canada in the Round of 16 on June 28.
His World Cup appearances came despite the death of his grandmother, Marianna Adams, a day before the draw with the Czech Republic, a decision widely praised as a testament to his commitment to the national team.
Speaking to South African broadcaster eNCA, his father, Juanito Adams, described the family’s grief.
“The family is struggling to process it. It won’t be easy to carry on. People say it becomes easier, but it won’t. You just learn to live with it,” he said.
Tributes have continued to pour in from across the football world, with a moment of silence observed before England’s World Cup quarter-final against Norway on Saturday.
South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, praised Adams’ dedication, saying his decision to represent his country while mourning his grandmother reflected exceptional character and professionalism.
