Erasmus Pays Tribute To Late Bafana Midfielder Adams and SA Rugby Prodigy Makwedini
Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has paid tribute to two young South African sportsmen following a heartbreaking week that left the nation in mourning after the deaths of Bafana Bafana midfielder Jayden Adams and former South Africa Under-18 rugby player Luqobo Makwedini.
The 25-year-old Adams, who played for CAF Champions League holders Mamelodi Sundowns, was pronounced dead on Saturday morning. The circumstances surrounding his death remain under investigation.
Hailing from Cloetesville in Stellenbosch, Adams became the first graduate of Stellenbosch FC’s academy to earn a professional contract.
His impressive performances in the Maroons’ colours quickly attracted the attention of Sundowns, where he established himself as a key figure.
During his time in Tshwane, Adams collected the Betway Premiership and Champions League honours at club level and also played an integral role for Bafana Bafana as they successfully progressed from their group at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, helping South Africa reach the knockout stages for the first time.
Makwedini’s rugby journey took him from the Eastern Cape to Cape Town, where he attended Wynberg Boys’ High School before furthering his career in France with Béziers Hérault.
He represented Western Province XV at the 2023 FNB Under-18 Craven Week before earning selection for both the SA Schools and SA Under-18 ‘A’ squads the following year.
The 20-year-old reportedly fell ill during a morning training session and was rushed to hospital, where he sadly passed away a few hours later.
Speaking ahead of the Springboks’ next Test, Erasmus expressed his heartfelt condolences to the families, teammates and loved ones of both players, acknowledging the profound impact their deaths have had on South African sport.
The passing of Adams and Makwedini has sent shockwaves through the country’s sporting fraternity, with tributes pouring in from across the football and rugby communities.
While admitting he was unaware of the circumstances surrounding the tragedies, Erasmus said any loss within the South African sporting family was deeply painful.
“I don’t know the full scope of what happened, why it happened or how it happened. I just know that seeing one of your ex-players, or anybody in South Africa, going through tough times is terrible,” Erasmus said solemnly.
“I didn’t know them personally. We send our condolences to their families, their loved ones, their teammates and the people who were close to them.”
The Springbok coach added that the national team would honour their memory in the best way they know how as they prepare for their upcoming Test.
“I don’t know the reasons behind their passing, but we’ll pray for them, and we’ll play a bit for them if that helps at all. Just all our love to their families and loved ones,” said the two-time Rugby World Cup-winning coach.
