Police launch investigation after South Africa World Cup star Jayden Adams found dead

Police launch investigation after South Africa World Cup star Jayden Adams found dead

Police in South Africa are investigating the death of World Cup footballer Jayden Adams, whose body was discovered at a property in Cape Town over the weekend. The 25-year-old’s passing comes just two weeks after he helped the national team reach the knockout stage of a World Cup for the first time.

Authorities have not yet released a cause of death. "Cape Town central police registered an inquest for investigation following the discovery of the body of a 25-year-old male on Saturday," police said in a statement. "Circumstances surrounding this incident are under investigation."

Adams’ father, Juanito Adams, told South African TV news station eNCA that the family was currently awaiting the results of an autopsy and had not yet made any funeral plans. "As you all know, it was an untimely death. The family is struggling to process it," he said. "It won't be easy to carry on. People say it will become easier, but it won't. You just learn to live with it."

The young player featured in all three of South Africa's group games, contributing to their best-ever World Cup performance. He was not part of the squad for the 1-0 defeat to Canada in the round of 32. South Africa Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie revealed that Adams had played in his team's group game against the Czech Republic just hours after learning of his grandmother's death.

McKenzie urged the public and media to "exercise restraint and compassion" and refrain from speculating on the cause of death during the ongoing investigation. Tributes were paid to Adams with moments of silence observed at Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final matches between England and Norway and then Argentina vs Switzerland.

England and Argentina proceeded to book their spots in the semi-finals and will meet on Wednesday, while the other last-four encounter will see 2018 winners France take on 2010 champions Spain on Tuesday. The South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) also honored his memory, stating that Adams had only recently represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage, and distinction.

Adams' club, Mamelodi Sundowns, shared a touching message, saying they were "devastated by the tragic passing of Jayden Adams." The team expressed their deepest condolences to the family and friends, and prayed that the Almighty God comforts and strengthens them as they mourn the loss of Adams.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino issued a tribute to Adams, saying it was "incredibly sad" to hear of his passing. Infantino extended his thoughts and condolences to Adams' family, friends, and teammates, saying that the Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns star will be sorely missed.