Former MLS Midfielder Gadi Kinda Passes Away at 31
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Former Major League Soccer midfielder, Gadi Kinda, known for his exceptional talent on the field and his spirit of kindness and generosity, has tragically passed away at the age of 31. The Israeli-Ethiopian athlete was a beloved member of Sporting Kansas City from 2020 to 2023. Kinda’s death was confirmed by Major League Soccer through an Instagram post on Tuesday, May 20.
During his time at Sporting Kansas City, Gadi Kinda endeared himself to fans with his remarkable performance, passion for the sport, and his compassionate nature towards everyone he encountered. Major League Soccer expressed their deepest condolences to Kinda’s family, friends, fans, and all those associated with Sporting Kansas City, highlighting the impact he had within the soccer community during his tenure.
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback, Patrick Mahomes, was among the many who shared their condolences following the news of Gadi Kinda’s passing. Kinda’s presence on the field was notable, as he recorded 14 goals in 48 starts across 64 career MLS matches over four seasons, according to ESPN. After his stint in the MLS, Kinda returned to Israel to play for Maccabi Haifa in 2024, further showcasing his talent and dedication to the sport.
Kinda also represented the Israeli national team, earning 10 caps since his debut in 2021. His last game was on March 29, following which he had been hospitalised due to a complex medical condition. Two weeks prior to his passing, Maccabi Haifa, his Israeli team, announced that Kinda was undergoing extensive medical examinations and receiving full support from the club and medical staff.
Born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Gadi Kinda moved to Israel during his childhood. A heartwarming video shared by Sporting Kansas City in 2020 captured the moment Kinda met his new teammates, displaying his excitement and positive spirit. His impact both on and off the field was evident, as he left a lasting impression on those around him.
The cause of Gadi Kinda’s untimely death has not been disclosed at this time, leaving fans and the soccer community mourning the loss of a talented athlete. In light of this tragic news, tributes and messages of support continue to pour in for Kinda’s family and loved ones, underscoring the profound impact he had on those who knew him. Kinda’s legacy as a kind-hearted and talented individual will be remembered by many in the soccer world.
The passing of Gadi Kinda serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the lasting impact individuals can have through their actions both on and off the field. His memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him, as the soccer community mourns the loss of a remarkable talent taken too soon.