South African midfielder Jayden Adams has passed away aged just 25, mere weeks after featuring in the World Cup.

The Mamelodi Sundowns player played in three of Bafana Bafana’s 2026 World Cup matches, including the opener against Mexico at the Azteca Stadium. He would then feature in the other two group games against Czechia and South Korea as South Africa qualified for the knockouts for the first time.

He was an unused substitute for the Round of 32 defeat to Canada in Los Angeles. Adams won nine caps for his country in his career as well as a CAF African Champions League crown last season.

The South African Players Union released a statement announcing 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 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.’

FIFA President Gianni Infantino led the tributes, saying: ‘It is 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.

‘My thoughts and condolences, as well as those of everyone at FIFA and the global football community, are with his family, friends and team-mates. The Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns star will be sorely missed. May he rest in peace.’

During the tournament, Adams was in mourning as his grandmother had passed away at the age of 72 the day before South Africa drew with Czechia in Atlanta.

Details surrounding Adams’ death are currently unknown.