Jayden Adams, the South African midfielder who represented his country at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup, has died at the age of 25.
The news was confirmed on Saturday by South Africa’s Sports Minister, Gayton McKenzie, who described Adams as one of the nation’s brightest young football talents.
“It is with profound shock and a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing of Jayden Adams,” McKenzie said in a statement, adding that South African football had suffered a significant loss.
Authorities have not disclosed the cause of death. However, Western Cape police confirmed they have opened an investigation after the body of a 25-year-old man was found at a house in the Schotschekloof area of central Cape Town on Saturday morning. Police said the circumstances surrounding the death remain under investigation.
Adams featured in all three of South Africa’s group-stage matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup but did not play in the Round of 32 defeat to Canada.
Born in Cape Town, Adams began his professional career with Stellenbosch FC before joining Mamelodi Sundowns in January 2025, where he helped the club achieve domestic and continental success.
His death comes less than a month after the loss of his grandmother, who passed away on the eve of South Africa’s World Cup group-stage match against Czechia. Despite the personal tragedy, Adams played in the match, earning praise for his commitment to the national team.
Tributes have continued to pour in from across the football community, with teammates, clubs and football organizations mourning the untimely death of one of South Africa’s most promising midfielders.
