Soccer player Jayden Adams was in a long-term relationship with Aqueelah Adendorf before his untimely death.
News broke on Saturday, July 11, that the South African athlete — who played for both the Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana — had died. He was 25.
“The South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) is devastated by the untimely passing of Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder, Jayden Adams,” the union announced via its official X account. “His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family, teammates, clubs, the football fraternity and the country at large.”
The statement continued, “Death has cruelly stolen one of our own. It has robbed our nation of a remarkable footballer, but it will never take away the legacy Jayden Adams leaves behind. We will forever remember his humility, his extraordinary talent and the pride with which he represented South Africa.”
Weeks earlier, Adams appeared in South Africa’s 2-0 loss to Mexico and the team’s 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic in the World Cup. He was a substitute player during the team’s 1-0 win over South Korea and did not appear in the team’s loss to Canada.
Scroll down to learn more about Adendorf:
Aqueelah Adendorf Is a Mom to Her and Jayden Adams’ Daughter
Adendorf and Adams welcomed their daughter, Allaia-Jayda, in 2021. The pair celebrated their daughter’s fifth birthday in May with a pamper party theme. “Little girls, big pamper energy 💅🎀,” a post read via Instagram.
Aqueelah Adendorf Shares Inspirational Messages Online
Adendorf has shared several inspirational messages on her Instagram, including one post in December 2025, which read: “Less perfection, more authenticity.😮💨.”
In another Instagram post one month before, Adendorf wrote, “Adventure awaits around every corner. 😊.”
Aqueelah Adendorf Was Supportive of Partner Jayden Adams’ Career Before His Death
In an emotional May post, Adendorf honored her partner ahead of the World Cup.
“Watching you achieve something this big has filled my heart with so much pride. 🤍 From the hard work, sacrifices, early mornings, disappointments, and moments nobody saw — you kept going, stayed disciplined, and trusted God through it all. And now look at you… representing your country on the national team. 🇿🇦,” she wrote via Instagram at the time.
She continued, “I don’t think you even realize how inspiring you are. You deserve every single moment of this because I’ve seen how much you’ve worked for it. Through every challenge, you never gave up on your dream, and that alone makes me so proud to stand beside you and support you through it all. No matter how far this journey takes you, just know I’ll always be your biggest supporter, loudest cheerleader, and safest place. ❤️.”
Adendorf noted that “this is only the beginning” for Adams.
“May God continue to guide your steps, protect you, and open even bigger doors for your future. Keep shining, keep believing, and keep making us proud. Your hard work is finally paying off and I know there’s still so much more greatness waiting for you. 🇿🇦✨,” she wrote. “‘Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.’ — Proverbs 16:3 ✝️.”
Aqueelah Adendorf Honored Partner Jayden Adams After His Death
After Adams died, Adendorf paid tribute to her longtime partner in a statement.
“There are no words to describe the pain I’m feeling. 💔,” she wrote via Instagram at the time. “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.”
She continued, “A part of my heart left with you, and I will carry your love with me forever. Until we meet again, I’ll miss you every single day. Rest easy, my angel. I love you always and forever. 🕊️❤️.”
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