South African football is mourning the death of midfielder Jayden Adams, who has died at the age of 25, just days after representing the country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Adams, who featured for Bafana Bafana during the tournament, played in all three of South Africa’s group-stage matches, starting the opening two fixtures before remaining an unused substitute in the team’s Round of 32 defeat to Canada.
The tragic news was confirmed on Saturday by the South African Football Players Union (SAFPU), which paid tribute to the talented midfielder.
In a statement, the union described Adams’ death as an immense loss to South African football.
“The SAFPU is devastated by the untimely passing of Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder, Jayden Adams.
“Jayden had only recently represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage, and distinction.
“His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family, teammates, clubs, the football fraternity and country at large.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the Adams family, Mamelodi Sundowns, Stellenbosch FC, Bafana Bafana and all those whose lives he touched.
“South African football has lost a gifted player, a proud servant of the game and a young life that still had so much to offer.
“May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
Adams’ death has sent shockwaves through the football community, coming less than two weeks after he helped South Africa in their World Cup campaign.
The cause of his death has not yet been disclosed.
