South Africa midfielder Jayden Adams dies weeks after playing in World Cup

South African midfielder Jayden Adams has died at age 25 less than three weeks after helping his country advance out of World Cup group play for the first time.

The Mamelodi Sundowns player started South Africa’s first two games, a 2-0 defeat against host Mexico and a 1-1 draw against Czechia. He then came off the bench in the 1-0 upset victory over South Korea that sent South Africa to the round of 32.

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“The South African Football Players Union is devastated by the untimely passing of Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder, Jayden Adams,” the SAFPU said in a statement Saturday. “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, teammates, clubs, the football fraternity and the country at large.”

Neither the SAFPU nor the South African Football Association immediately returned emails from Yahoo Sports seeking further information on the timing or cause of Adams’ death.

Adams came through the youth system of South African club Stellenbosch FC, becoming their first academy product to sign a professional contract. He made 139 appearances for Stellenbosch before joining Mamelodi Sundowns in January 2025.

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“South African football has lost one of its brightest young talents, “ South Africa minister of sport Gayton McKenzie said Saturday in a statement. “Our nation mourns alongside his family, his teammates and the millions of supporters who watched him grow from a promising academy prospect into a full Bafana Bafana international.”