JOHANNESBURG (AP) — South African midfielder Jayden Adams played for Johannesburg. world cuppassed away. He was 25 years old.
His death was confirmed by South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie in a statement on Saturday.
“It is with deep shock and heavy hearts that we learn of the passing of Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder Jayden Adams at the age of 25,” McKenzie wrote on X.
“South African football has lost one of its brightest young talents and our country mourns alongside his family, team-mates and millions of supporters.”
Adams helped South Africa reach the World Cup finals. first time.
Further details regarding his death have not been released.
“Jaden’s cause of death has not yet been confirmed,” Mr McKenzie said. “I would like to appeal to members of the media and the public to exercise restraint, compassion, and refrain from speculation.”
Adams started South Africa’s first Group A match against the Czech Republic, but was substituted at half-time. Mackenzie said she played the game just hours after learning her grandmother had died.
Adams played for Stellenbosch for several seasons before joining Mamelodi Sundowns last year. He contributed to winning this year’s CAF (Africa) Champions League.
“Death has cruelly taken our lives. Death has robbed our country of a great footballer,” said the South African Footballers’ Union. Posted in X. “We will always remember his humility, his extraordinary talent and his pride in representing 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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