One of the players who represented South Africa at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup, Jayden Adams, has died at the age of 25.
According to reports, the Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder was found dead on Saturday morning at a residential building in Schotschekloof, a suburb in central Cape Town. Authorities and his family have not yet disclosed the exact cause of his death.
His passing comes as a second devastating loss for his family, who are still mourning his 72-year-old grandmother Marianna Adams. She died on June 17, one day before South Africa’s crucial group-stage match against the Czech Republic.
Despite his grief, Adams chose to remain with the squad, starting the game and playing through the emotional toll.
Brendine Johnson, Adams’ mentor and family representative, confirmed the tragedy and described the shock felt by those close to him.
“This passing has ripped everybody apart, returning from the World Cup just now, and then getting such news. Nobody expected this,” Johnson said.
“I had a close conversation with him on Thursday, the guy was really positive on returning back, and being able to return after the World Cup… knowing what lies ahead, he was prepared.”
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) also announced the player’s death in a post on X.
Gayton McKenzie, South Africa’s minister of sport, arts, and culture, expressed deep shock, saying the nation had lost one of its brightest football prospects.
“It is with profound shock and a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing of Jayden Adams, midfielder for Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana, at the age of 25,” McKenzie said.
The South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) also paid tribute, commending Adams’ dedication to the national team under incredibly trying personal circumstances.
“Jayden had only recently represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage, and distinction,” SAFPU wrote.
“His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family, teammates, clubs, the football fraternity and country at large.”
Adams was part of the history-making Bafana Bafana squad that advanced past the group stage at the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the first time.
He featured in all three group matches, starting against Mexico and Czechia before coming off the bench in the 1-0 victory over South Korea.
At club level, Adams enjoyed a highly successful 2025/26 season with Mamelodi Sundowns, helping the team secure the African Champions League title. He previously played for Stellenbosch FC before earning his move to Sundowns.