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Tributes have continued to pour in following the untimely passing of Jayden Adams, a 25-year-old midfielder who was celebrated as one of South Africa’s most promising football talents.
Grootman, as he was affectionately known, played for both reigning CAF Champions Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana, contributing significantly to the teams and showcasing his skills at a national level.
His recent inclusion in South Africa’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup further underlined his potential and importance to the sport. He transitioned to Mamelodi Sundowns from Stellenbosch FC, where he had begun to gain recognition as a rising star.
Over his tenure at the Cape Winelands club, he made 139 appearances, contributing significantly to the team’s success, including their victory in the 2023 Carling Knockout.
In January 2025, Jayden joined Mamelodi Sundowns, his performance there further flourishing as he helped the team clinch the Betway Premiership title and the CAF Champions League within just two years.
On the international front, Jayden represented the Bafana Bafana, contributing to the team’s bronze medal win at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations held in Côte d’Ivoire.
He was subsequently selected for Hugo Broos’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, playing in all three group matches and assisting South Africa in achieving historic progress to the Round of 32 for the first time.
The football community is mourning the loss of a young athlete whose future seemed incredibly bright.
Remembering Jayden Adams
Expressing their condolences in an official statement, the Chloorkop-based outfit conveyed their devastation by the tragic passing of Adams.
“The Chairman and the Motsepe Family, the Board of Directors, Technical Team, Players, Management, Staff, Supporters of Mamelodi Sundowns FC & the entire Yellow Nation express their deepest condolences to the family and friends as we mourn the loss of Jayden.
“We pray that the Almighty God comforts and strengthens the Adams family, his friends and everyone that knew him. Sundowns respectfully ask that the family’s privacy be honoured as they grieve this profound loss,” the club wrote.
Bafana Bafana also joined in and said, “Today, South African football mourns the loss of a talented player whose passion, dedication, and love for the beautiful game inspired many.
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“Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, loved ones, teammates, and everyone affected by this devastating loss. May his soul rest in eternal peace. You will never be forgotten, Jayden.”
“Eishhh Grootman,” tweeted Gauteng premier Panyaza Lesufi.
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