South Africa mourns World Cup midfielder Jayden Adams after tragic death at 25
South African football has been plunged into mourning following the death of Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams at the age of 25.
The heartbreaking news was confirmed on Saturday by African broadcaster eNCA, just weeks after Adams represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Adams featured in all three of Bafana Bafana's group-stage matches during the tournament and was an unused substitute in their 1-0 Round of 32 defeat to Canada.
Following South Africa's World Cup campaign, Mamelodi Sundowns reportedly granted the midfielder an additional two weeks of leave to rest and recover.
As of the time of filing this report, Mamelodi Sundowns are yet to issue an official statement on the player's passing, while the cause of death has not been made public.
The talented midfielder was a key member of the South African squad that progressed to the Round of 32 before their elimination by Canada, earning praise for his commitment and performances on football's biggest stage.
Reacting to the tragic development, the South African Football Players' Union (SAFPU) paid an emotional tribute to the late midfielder.
"The South African Football Players' Union (SAFPU) is devastated by the untimely passing of Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder, Jayden Adams.
"Jayden had only recently represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage and distinction. His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family, team-mates, clubs, the football fraternity and the country at large.
"We extend our deepest condolences to the Adams family, Mamelodi Sundowns, Stellenbosch FC, Bafana Bafana and all those whose lives he touched. South African football has lost a gifted player, a proud servant of the game and a young life that still had so much to offer. May his soul rest in eternal peace."
The football community across South Africa and beyond continues to mourn the loss of one of the country's brightest talents, whose career was cut tragically short at the age of 25.
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