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Patrick Mahomes Reacts to Tragic Passing of Former Kansas City Sports Star

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Cole Sullivan | Last updated May 20, 2025 1:29 PM ET

Sad news struck the sports world on Tuesday morning with the announcement that former Sporting Kansas City star Gadi Kinda has passed away at the age of 31.

The news came as a shock to many. His current club, Maccabi Haifa, shared the heartbreaking update on social media—just two weeks after announcing that Kinda had been hospitalized to undergo "a series of comprehensive tests" due to a "complex medical battle."

Kinda played for Sporting KC from 2020 to 2023, appearing in 80 matches while recording 16 goals and 17 assists. He played a pivotal role in helping the club reach the postseason three times before returning to his native Israel to join Maccabi Haifa.

Sporting KC issued a statement following the announcement: "We are deeply saddened by the passing of former Sporting KC midfielder Gadi Kinda. Our hearts are with Gadi’s family, his friends, teammates and all who knew him."

The news prompted a response from Kansas City Chiefs quarterback and local sports icon Patrick Mahomes, who took to social media to share his condolences.
"Praying for his family and friends!" Mahomes wrote.

Praying for his family and friends! https://t.co/CPnp1dXRnD
— Patrick Mahomes II (@PatrickMahomes) May 20, 2025

Fans were saddened by the news:

"Terrible news. This is so sad," a fan said.

Someone else added, "Rest in paradise young man. San Jose will be praying for you."

Another fan wrote, "RIP Legend."

"Heartbreaking news—rest in peace, Gadi Kinda. Thoughts and strength to his loved ones during this time," one more fan commented.

Kinda's final professional appearance came on March 29, when he played the last four minutes of a 2–0 victory over Hapoel Haifa in the Ligat Ha'Al Championship Round.

"Israeli football lost not only a talented player today, but also a beloved and respected person," FA wrote on social media. "We share the grief of the Kinda family over Gadi's untimely passing,"

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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