*This content was translated by AI.
The shock is so great that even family members cannot easily accept his death. Following the sudden passing of South African national team midfielder Jaden Adams, who led his country to its first-ever advancement to the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America by competing against South Korea and others, updates from those close to him have been released.
Global media outlet 'AP News' reported on the 14th (Korean time) that "police have launched a full investigation into the circumstances of Adams' death after his body was found in a house in Cape Town this weekend."
Adams, who passed away at the young age of 25, was discovered cold and lifeless just two weeks after achieving the historic feat of being the first player in South African football history to advance from the World Cup group stage to the tournament phase, sending shockwaves through the global football community. Judicial authorities have not yet announced the specific cause of death.
Adams' family members still cannot easily accept his death. Although several days have passed since the news broke, as police investigations continue to determine the exact cause of death, even autopsy results remain unavailable, and no funeral has been held.
According to 'AP News', local police confirmed in a statement that "the Cape Town Central Police Station completed its case filing for investigation after discovering the body of a 25-year-old man in a building in Cape Town around 11 a.m. last Saturday," and added, "We are currently conducting a thorough investigation into the exact circumstances surrounding this incident."
Overwhelmed by sudden tragedy, the bereaved family fell into deep sorrow. In an interview with local news, Adams' father, Juanito Adams, said, "As everyone knows, this was a tragedy that came too suddenly. All of us are struggling to accept reality and are in great pain." He added, "Moving forward will not be easy at all. People say time will heal everything, but it won't. We will simply have to learn how to live with this pain."
Even his father explained his despair, stating, "We are anxiously waiting for the official autopsy results from the police. We haven't even been able to schedule a funeral yet."
Adams played in all three group stage matches that South Korea faced during this North American World Cup, writing history for the national team. He showed active performance in the final group stage match against South Korea on the 25th of last month but missed the Round of 32 match against Canada (lost 0-1) held on the 28th of last month.
Gaetan McKenzie, South Africa's Minister of Sports, paid tribute to the late player, saying, "Adams was a dedicated athlete who displayed great fighting spirit in the group stage match against Czech Republic just hours after learning about his grandmother's passing."
He further urged, "While the exact autopsy and police investigation are underway, we ask the media and public to refrain from speculation and extend warm condolences and compassion to the bereaved family."
Meanwhile, moments of silence were held in honor of Adams just before the World Cup Round of 16 matches between England vs. Norway and Argentina vs. Switzerland last Saturday.
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*This content was translated by AI.
