South African World Cup player dies aged 25

Sun 12 Jul 2026 at 6:39am

Sun 12 Jul 2026 at 6:39am

In short:

Jayden Adams, 25, died after playing for South Africa at the World Cup.

South Africa's players' union described his passing as "an immeasurable loss" for the country.

Adams started two of South Africa's group stage matches despite the death of his grandmother the day before the 1-1 draw with Czechia.

Footballer Jayden Adams has died at age 25 after playing in three World Cup games last month for South Africa, the country's football players union confirmed Saturday.

No official cause of death was released.

"The South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) is devastated by the untimely passing of Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder Jayden Adams," a statement read.

"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 started two of the three World Cup matches he appeared in for South Africa despite the death of his grandmother, Marianna, one day before a 1-1 draw with the Czechia.

He started in that match, being replaced at half-time, and also started South Africa's 2-0 loss to Mexico. He was a sub in a 1-0 win over South Korea.

He was an unused substitute when South Africa was knocked out by Canada on June 28.

South Africa's Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie said he reached out to Adams to offer condolences when his grandmother died.

"I shall carry forever the humble, appreciative response he gave me. That he chose to wear the national jersey and give his all for his country in that moment speaks to a depth of character and professionalism well beyond his years, and it reflects the calibre of the young man South Africa has lost," McKenzie's statement read.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino offered his condolences via Instagram, saying his "thoughts and condolences, as well as those of everyone at FIFA and the global football community, are with his family, friends and teammates".

Before the World Cup, he helped Mamelodi Sundowns win the CAF Champions League. He joined Sundowns after playing for Stellenbosch FC.

Adams dedicated his medal from the Sundowns to late Stellenbosch teammate Oshwin Andries, who died after being stabbed in 2023.

Reuters

Email address