South Africa World Cup Midfielder Jayden Adams Dies Aged 25
South Africa international midfielder Jayden Adams, who represented his country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has died at the age of 25
South Africa World Cup Midfielder Jayden Adams Dies Aged 25
South Africa international midfielder Jayden Adams, who represented his country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has died at the age of 25.
Adams featured in all three of South Africa's group-stage matches. He started the 2-0 defeat to Mexico and the 1-1 draw against Czechia before being substituted in both games. He later came on as a substitute in the 1-0 victory over South Korea but did not play in the 1-0 Round of 32 defeat to Canada.
South Africa's Minister of Sport, Gayton McKenzie, said in a statement:
"It is with profound shock and a heavy heart that I have learned of the passing of Jayden Adams, midfielder for Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana, at the age of 25. South African football has lost one of its brightest young talents, and our nation mourns alongside his family, teammates, and the millions of supporters who watched him grow into a full international."
The minister did not disclose the cause of death.
Western Cape Police confirmed that the body of a 25-year-old man was found at a house in Schotsche Kloof, Cape Town, on Saturday morning. Police spokesperson FC van Wyk said the circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino also expressed his condolences, saying:
"It is incredibly sad to hear that South Africa midfielder Jayden Adams has passed away just weeks after featuring in his nation's historic World Cup campaign. On behalf of FIFA and the global football community, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and teammates. He will be greatly missed."
Adams came through the Stellenbosch FC academy and became the club's first academy graduate to sign a professional contract. He made 139 appearances for the club, helping them win the 2023 Carling Knockout title, before joining Mamelodi Sundowns in January 2025.
The South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) described his passing as an immeasurable loss, stating that Adams had proudly represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and extended its deepest condolences to his family, Mamelodi Sundowns, Stellenbosch FC, Bafana Bafana, and everyone whose lives he touched.
