Jayden Adams Dies At Age 25, Midfielder Played for South Africa During World Cup

The South African Football Players Union announced Saturday that 2026 FIFA World Cup team member Jayden Adams died at the age of 25.

No cause of death was given, but the SAFPU (h/t ESPN's Leonard Solms) released a statement on Adams' passing:

"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 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 the 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, who played his club soccer for the Mamelodi Sundowns of the South African Premiership, appeared in three of South Africa's four matches at the World Cup.

He started South Africa's 2-0 loss to Mexico and 1-1 draw with Czechia to start group play, and then came on as a substitute during the team's 1-0 win over South Korea to advance to the knockout stage.

Per Solms, Adams started the match against Czechia despite the death of his grandmother one day earlier.

Adams remained on the bench and did not play in South Africa's 1-0 loss to Canada in the Round of 32 on June 28.