Jayden Adams, the South Africa and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder, has died at the age of 25, only weeks after representing his country at the World Cup.
Adams played in all three of South Africa’s group matches as Bafana Bafana advanced to the knockout rounds, where they were beaten by co-hosts Canada in the round of 32.
Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie said he was profoundly shocked by Adams’ death, calling him one of South African football’s brightest young talents and offering condolences to his family, teammates and supporters.
Police in South Africa have launched an investigation after the body of a 25-year-old man was found on Saturday morning at a home in Schotschekloof, a central Cape Town suburb. McKenzie noted that the cause of death has not yet been confirmed and urged the media and public to avoid speculation and to respect the privacy of Adams’ family and Mamelodi Sundowns, adding that official updates will follow in due course.
Adams started in the 1-1 Group A draw with the Czech Republic despite learning only hours before kick-off that his grandmother had died.
The South African Football Players Union said it was devastated by his passing. Adams, who debuted for the national team in 2022, had recently represented South Africa at the 2026 World Cup, and his loss is felt by his family, teammates, clubs, the football community and the nation.
Adams began his club career at Stellenbosch FC before joining Mamelodi Sundowns in January 2025, where he won both the domestic league and the CAF Champions League. Internationally, he was part of the squad that reached the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals and later earned a place in Hugo Broos’ World Cup squad, which made history by reaching the tournament’s knockout stages for the first time.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino called the news incredibly sad and extended condolences on behalf of FIFA and the global football community, saying Adams will be greatly missed.