Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie has conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the family of Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder Jayden Adams following his death on Saturday, 11 July.
In a statement, McKenzie described Adams’ passing as a devastating loss, not only for his family but for South African football and the nation as a whole.
“In Jayden, the country has lost one of its brightest young talents, and our nation mourns alongside his family, his teammates and the millions of supporters who watched him grow from a promising academy prospect into a full Bafana Bafana international,” said McKenzie.
Adams began his professional career at Stellenbosch FC after progressing through the club’s academy, becoming its first academy graduate to sign a professional contract in August 2020. During his time with the Cape Winelands outfit, he made 139 appearances and helped the club lift the 2023 Carling Knockout title before securing a move to Mamelodi Sundowns in January 2025.
At Sundowns, Adams quickly established himself as a key player, winning the Betway Premiership title and the CAF Champions League within two seasons.
On the international stage, Adams was part of the Bafana Bafana squad that claimed the bronze medal at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire. He was also included in Hugo Broos’ squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, featuring in all three of South Africa’s group-stage matches as Bafana Bafana reached the Round of 32 for the first time in the country’s history.
McKenzie also reflected on a personal moment during South Africa’s World Cup campaign.
“I will always remember watching Bafana’s match against Czechia in Atlanta. I recall noting how unusually quiet Jayden seemed on the bench in the second half after he had been substituted. It was onafterwardrds that we learnt he had taken to the field that day carrying the fresh grief of losing his grandmother, Marianna, who had passed away only hours before kick-off,” he said.
The minister said he had reached out to Adams after learning of his grandmother’s passing.
“When I reached out to Jayden to offer my condolences and encouragement, I shall carry forever the humble, appreciative response he gave me. That he chose to wear the national jersey and give his all for his country in that moment speaks to a depth of character and professionalism well beyond his years, and it reflects the calibre of young man South Africa has lost.”
McKenzie urged the public and the media to avoid speculation surrounding the circumstances of Adams’ death.
“The cause of Jayden’s passing has not yet been confirmed. I wish to appeal to members of the media and the public to exercise restraint and compassion, and to refrain from speculation while his family and Mamelodi Sundowns are given the space and privacy they need at this incredibly difficult time. Any official information will be communicated by the appropriate parties in due course.”
He concluded by extending condolences on behalf of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture.
“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.”
