Jayden Adams is being honored by his family, teammates, fellow World Cup players, and his longtime partner.
On Saturday, July 11, the South African Football Players Union announced in a statement on X that the defensive midfielder had died at age 25.
His sudden death came just two weeks after he played for South Africa’s men’s national soccer team (affectionately known as Bafana Bafana) at the World Cup, during which the country made it to its first-ever place in the knockout rounds, where they ultimately lost to Canada in round 32.
Taking to Instagram, Aqueelah Adendorf, Jayden’s girlfriend, shared photos of the couple together holding hands, and wrote: “There are no words to describe the pain I’m feeling.”
“Rest in peace, my love,” she continued. “Thank you for every memory, every laugh, every hug, and every moment we shared. You were not only the love of my life but also my greatest supporter and my best friend.”
“A part of my heart left with you, and I will carry your love with me forever. Until we meet again, I’ll miss you every single day,” she added, and concluded: “Rest easy, my angel. I love you always and forever.”
Aqueela, who is a mom to a daughter, Allaïa, also took to her Instagram Stories and wrote: “Thank you all for your kind condolences and messages of support. They truly mean a lot to me and Allaïa during this difficult time.”
“I appreciate every message, even if I haven’t responded yet. I will get back to everyone as soon as I can. Thank you for your understanding and kindness.”
No cause of death has yet been disclosed for Jayden, who was born in Cape Town, and began his professional soccer career in 2020. His grandmother Marianna Adams died on June 17, the day before he played in the World Cup game against the Czech Republic.
© InstagramIn the statement on X announcing Jayden’s death, the South African Football Players Union shared he died after “carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage and distinction” throughout the World Cup.
© Gallo Images via Getty ImagesThe statement continued: “His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family, teammates, clubs, the football fraternity and the country at large.”
“Death has cruelly stolen one of our own. It has robbed our nation of a remarkable footballer, but it will never take away the legacy Jayden Adams leaves behind. We will forever remember his humility, his extraordinary talent and the pride with which he represented South Africa,” it added.
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