The South African Football Players Union confirmed the passing of Jayden Adams, a midfielder for Mamelodi Sundowns and participant in Bafana Bafana’s journey to the World Cup round of 32. He was just 25 years old.
Adams played a key role, starting in two of South Africa’s three group matches and making a vital appearance off the bench during a 1-0 victory against South Korea on June 24, which marked a historic advancement to the knockout stage for the team.
He remained on the bench during South Africa’s elimination from the tournament against Canada on June 28.
“Jayden recently represented South Africa at the FIFA World Cup, embracing the nation’s hopes with pride and dignity,” the South African Football Players Union expressed in their statement. “His loss is profoundly felt by his family, teammates, clubs, and the broader football community.”
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Adams family, Mamelodi Sundowns, Stellenbosch FC, Bafana Bafana, and all whose lives he touched.”
“South African football mourns a talented player and dedicated servant of the game, whose young life was full of potential.”
Further details regarding his death remain undisclosed.
“Cape Town Central police are conducting an investigation following the discovery of a deceased 25-year-old male on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at a location on Military Road, Scotscheskloof,” stated spokesperson F.C. van Wyk of the Western Cape South African Police Service.
“The circumstances surrounding this matter are currently under investigation.”
Adams participated in South Africa’s 2-0 defeat against Mexico and a 1-1 draw with Czechia, despite grieving the recent loss of his grandmother, Marianna Adams, just one day prior.
He later came off the bench in the crucial 1-0 victory over South Korea, which turned out to be his last appearance on the field.
“When I expressed my condolences to Jayden after his grandmother’s passing, I will always remember his humble and grateful response,” stated South African Minister of Sports, Arts & Culture Gayton McKenzie.
“His commitment to don the national jersey and fully give himself for his country at such a difficult time speaks volumes about his character and professionalism, reflecting the kind of remarkable young man South Africa has lost.”
A moment of silence was observed in honor of Adams before the World Cup quarterfinals between Norway and England on Saturday.
“It’s incredibly tragic to learn of Jayden Adams’ passing, barely weeks after he showcased his talent in South Africa’s historic FIFA World Cup journey,” stated FIFA president Gianni Infantino on social media.
“My heartfelt condolences, along with those of everyone at FIFA and the global football community, are with his family, friends, and teammates. Jayden, a star for Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns, will be greatly missed. May he rest in peace.”
Before joining Mamelodi Sundowns last year, Adams spent several seasons with Stellenbosch. He celebrated a triumph in the CAF Champions League with Sundowns in May and dedicated his winners’ medal to Oshwin Andries, a former Stellenbosch teammate who tragically lost his life in 2023 due to a stabbing incident.
Mamelodi Sundowns expressed their devastation over Adams’ untimely death, stating, “We pray for comfort and strength for the Adams family, his friends, and all who knew him.” They also requested privacy for the family during this time of mourning.
Adams and Andries ascended through the ranks at Stellenbosch, which had also experienced the earlier loss of another young player, Jeandre Gaffoor, earlier in 2026.