South Africa World Cup midfielder Jayden Adams dies at 25

Adams featured in all three of South Africa's group-stage matches and was part of the squad.

JOHANNESBURG: South African international midfielder Jayden Adams, who recently represented Bafana Bafana at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has died at the age of 25, South Africa’s sports ministry confirmed on Saturday. No cause of death was announced.

Adams featured in all three of South Africa’s group-stage matches and was part of the squad that reached the knockout stage before being eliminated by Canada. He played club football for Mamelodi Sundowns after joining the Pretoria-based side in 2025, helping the club win the 2025-26 CAF Champions League.

The South African Football Players’ Union paid tribute to Adams, describing him as a gifted footballer and a proud servant of the game.

Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie also extended condolences, praising Adams’ rise from a youth prospect to a full international.

Local media reported that Adams’ family has requested privacy as they grieve. While speculation about the circumstances surrounding his death has circulated on social media, authorities have not confirmed a cause, and no official statement has attributed his death to suicide.