South Africa star Jayden Adams dies aged 25 after World Cup appearance

South Africa international Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25, just two weeks after representing his country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The news was confirmed on Saturday by the South African Football Players Union (SAFPU), while sources close to his club, Mamelodi Sundowns, also confirmed his death.

Adams featured in three matches for South Africa during the tournament, helping the team reach the knockout stage for the first time in their history.

Tributes pour in for South Africa midfielder

In a statement, SAFPU described the midfielder’s death as a huge loss to South African football.

“Jayden had only recently represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage and distinction,” the union said.

“His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family, teammates, clubs, the football fraternity and the country at large.”

The union also extended its condolences to Adams’ family, the South Africa national team, his current club Mamelodi Sundowns, former club Stellenbosch FC and everyone affected by his passing.

It added: “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.”

World Cup campaign cut short by tragedy

Adams started South Africa’s opening World Cup defeat to Mexico and the 1-1 draw against Czech Republic before appearing as a substitute in the 1-0 victory over South Korea. He was an unused substitute during the round-of-32 defeat to Canada.

His World Cup campaign came shortly after he suffered a personal loss, with the South African Football Association announcing during the tournament that his grandmother, Marianna Adams, had died before the team’s draw with Czech Republic.

At club level, Adams played for Mamelodi Sundowns after joining from Stellenbosch FC in January 2025. He made 67 appearances for the club, including 37 during the 2025/26 season.

The midfielder made his senior debut for South Africa at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations and earned nine international caps. He scored his only goal for the national team in a 2-0 World Cup qualifying victory over Benin in March 2025.

The circumstances surrounding his death have not been disclosed.