Police investigate death of South Africa World Cup player Jayden Adams

South African police have launched an investigation into the death of 25-year-old World Cup footballer Jayden Adams after his body was discovered in Cape Town on Saturday.

The passing of the South African international comes just two weeks after he helped his nation reach the knockout stages of a World Cup for the first time.

Authorities have yet to establish a formal cause of death for the young player.

Investigation underway in Cape Town

Officers confirmed the discovery was made at a property in the Schotsche Kloof neighbourhood at approximately 11:00 local time.

“Cape Town central police registered an inquest for investigation following the discovery of the body of a 25-year-old male on Saturday,” a police statement read.

“Circumstances surrounding this incident are under investigation.”

The player’s father, Juanito Adams, revealed the family is currently awaiting autopsy results and has not yet made funeral arrangements.

‘An untimely death’

“As you all know, it was an untimely death and the family is struggling to process it,” Mr Adams told South African TV station eNCA.

“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 gifted athlete featured in all three of his country’s group matches during their historic tournament run.

He was notably absent from the squad during their 1-0 defeat to Canada in the round of 32 on 28 June.

Tributes paid on world stage

South Africa Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie noted the player’s remarkable dedication, revealing he competed against the Czech Republic just hours after learning his grandmother had died.

The minister also urged the public and media to exercise restraint and avoid speculating on the tragedy while the investigation continues.

Moments of silence were observed in memory of the 25-year-old before Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final fixtures featuring England, Norway, Argentina, and Switzerland.