South Africa and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25, just weeks after representing his country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Adams played in all three of South Africa's group matches, helping the team reach the knockout stage for the first time in their history, where they fell to co-hosts Canada in the round of 32.
"It is with profound shock and a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing of Jayden Adams," said Gayton McKenzie, South Africa's minister of sport, arts and culture, in a statement. "South African football has lost one of its brightest young talents, and our nation mourns alongside his family, his team-mates and the millions of supporters who watched him grow from a promising academy prospect into a full Bafana Bafana international."
Police in South Africa confirmed they have opened an investigation after the body of a 25-year-old man was found at a house in Schotschekloof, a suburb in central Cape Town, on Saturday morning. The cause of death has not yet been confirmed.
McKenzie appealed for restraint, saying, "The cause of Jayden's passing has not yet been confirmed, and I wish to appeal to members of the media and the public to exercise restraint and compassion, and to refrain from speculation... Any official information will be communicated by the appropriate parties in due course."
Adams notably started in South Africa's 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic in Group A, despite learning that his grandmother had passed away just hours before kick-off.
The South African Football Players Union expressed devastation at the "untimely passing" of Adams, who made his international debut in 2022. "Jayden had only recently represented South Africa at the 2026 World Cup, carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage and distinction," the union said. "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."
Adams began his career at Stellenbosch FC before moving to Mamelodi Sundowns in January 2025, where he won league and African Champions League titles. He was also part of the South Africa squad that reached the semi-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino paid tribute, saying: "It's so incredibly sad to hear that South Africa midfielder Jayden Adams has passed away just weeks after featuring in his nation's historic Fifa World Cup campaign. My thoughts and condolences... are with his family, friends and team-mates. The Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns star will be sorely missed. May he rest in peace."