Who was Marianna Adams? Jayden Adams' heartbreaking words after grandmother's passing resurface after his tragic death
Jayden Adams, a 25-year-old midfielder for Mamelodi Sundowns, has died shortly after mourning his grandmother's passing.
South African midfielder and winger, Jayden Adams, has left the world in disbelief as he passed away just a few hours ago, only days after he played for his country against South Korea last month.
While the circumstances surrounding his tragic death are currently under investigation, Adams' poignant remarks about his grandmother have touched many hearts.
'She's the reason I'm here,' says Jayden Adams after grandmother's death
A few days ago, 25-year-old Adams, a midfielder for Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana, mourned the loss of his grandmother Marianna Adams, stating, "My legs were playing, but my heart was in heaven with her."
The talented player further expressed, "She's the reason I'm here... Wearing the green and gold meant everything to her."
For those unaware, Adams’ grandmother passed away just one day prior to South Africa's match against the Czech Republic.
In spite of his profound sorrow, Jayden Adams set aside his emotions and took to the field for his country the following day, starting the game.
His poignant remarks regarding his grandmother's passing have deeply touched many.
Jayden Adams' death probe
At this moment, as speculation circulates regarding Jayden Adams' potential suicide, authorities have yet to confirm any details while the world grieves his tragic and premature passing.
The South African Football Players Union has issued a poignant tribute to the young athlete in an official statement.
“The SAFPU is devastated by the untimely passing of Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder, Jayden Adams. Jayden had only recently represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage, and distinction," the statement read.
“His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family, teammates, clubs, the football fraternity and country at large. We extend our deepest condolences to the Adams family, Mamelodi Sundowns, Stellenbosch FC, Bafana Bafana and all those whose lives he touched.”
ABOUT THE AUTHORShweta KukretiShweta Kukreti has over 8 years of experience in covering Indian and world politics. She joined the Hindustan Times in 2024 and is primarily assigned to the US desk. She currently works as Deputy Chief Content Producer and reports on a wide range of topics, including US politics, immigration issues (especially H-1B visa) and major global events. Shweta strongly emphasizes team operations, which encompasses monitoring news, delegating tasks, editing, developing comprehensive coverage strategies, and crafting engaging, and data-informed narratives. She received the Digi Star Award at the Hindustan Times within a year of joining for her broad coverage of US politics. In 2025, she earned both a promotion and a redesignation, a significant achievement recognising her contributions and the strong value she brings to the team. She has previously worked with the Indian Express, HTDS, ANI and Republic World. Seniors in all the media organisations recognised her work. Regarding education, she earned a BA (Hons.) in Political Science and a master's degree from Delhi University, and she pursued a PG Diploma in English Journalism from the Indian Institution of Mass Communication (IIMC). She also holds a diploma in Women's Empowerment and Development from IGNOU University and a French certification course from Alliance Française de Delhi. If not working, you can find her exploring the hills and engaging in adventurous activities in Rishikesh and Himachal Pradesh. She loves to play badminton, volleyball, and chess, and spend time with her friends and family. She also enjoys spiritual activities.Read More

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