The father of late Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams has thanked South Africans for the outpouring of support following his son’s death.
Juanito Adams spoke publicly for the first time since the footballer died on 11 July at the age of 25. He said the family is struggling to process the loss.
“The family is struggling”
Speaking in an interview on Sunday, 12 July, Juanito described the past few days as overwhelming.
“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 gets easier, but it doesn’t. You simply learn to live with it.”
Juanito thanked South Africans and the global football community for the support they have shown the family.
“We can see the love the world had for Jayden. It’s very overwhelming.”
Jayden Adams’ parents: A father’s words take on new meaning
Just weeks before Jayden’s death, his parents, Juanito and Candice, spoke about their son’s football journey during a separate television interview.
They recalled how he fell in love with football at just three years old. Candice smiled as she remembered how Jayden kicked everything around the house – even potatoes.
The parents also reflected on the sacrifices, discipline and faith that helped shape one of South Africa’s brightest football talents.
Partner pays tribute
Jayden’s longtime partner, Aqueelah Adendorf, also shared an emotional tribute after his death.
“There are no words to describe the pain I’m feeling,” she wrote on social media.
“Rest in peace, my love. 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.”
Police continue investigating
Western Cape SAPS has opened an inquest after officers found Jayden’s body at a property in Schotsche Kloof, Cape Town, on Saturday.
Police said they are investigating the circumstances surrounding the 25-year-old’s death.