July 11, (THEWILL) — South African football has been plunged into mourning following the death of Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams at the age of 25, just weeks after representing his country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Adams featured in all three of South Africa’s group-stage matches as Hugo Broos’ side reached the knockout rounds of the tournament for the first time in their history before exiting in the Round of 32.
South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, confirmed the news in a statement, describing Adams as one of the country’s brightest football talents.
“It is with profound shock and a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing of Jayden Adams,” McKenzie said.
“South African football has lost one of its brightest young talents, and 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.”
South African police said an investigation had been opened after the body of a 25-year-old man was discovered at a residence in Schotschekloof, Cape Town, on Saturday morning. Authorities have not confirmed the cause of death.
McKenzie appealed for patience and respect for the family’s privacy, urging the public to avoid speculation while investigations continue.
“The cause of Jayden’s passing has not yet been confirmed, and I wish to appeal to members of the media and the public to exercise restraint and compassion,” he said.
The South African Football Players Union also paid tribute to the midfielder, describing his death as a devastating loss to the country’s football community.
“Jayden had only recently represented South Africa at the 2026 World Cup, carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage, and distinction,” the union said in a statement.
“His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family, teammates, clubs, the football fraternity, and the country at large.”
Adams began his professional career with Stellenbosch FC before completing a move to Mamelodi Sundowns in January 2025.
During his time with the Pretoria club, he helped the Brazilians win the South African Premiership and the CAF Champions League.
He also played a key role in South Africa’s run to the semi-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and was part of the squad that made history by reaching the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino joined the growing list of mourners, expressing condolences to Adams’ family and the South African football community.
“It’s so incredibly sad to hear that South Africa midfielder Jayden Adams has passed away just weeks after featuring in his nation’s historic FIFA World Cup campaign,” Infantino said.
“My thoughts and condolences, as well as those of everyone at FIFA and the global football community, are with his family, friends, and teammates. The Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns star will be sorely missed.
