South Africa footballer Jayden Adams dead at 25 after World Cup run

A professional soccer player who competed in the World Cup less than two weeks ago has died at 25.

The South Africa Football Players Union announced the “untimely passing” of midfielder Jayden Adams.

“Death has cruelly stolen one of our own. It has robbed our nation of a remarkable footballer, but it will never take away the legacy Jayden Adams leaves behind,” the union said in a social media post.

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Jayden Adams of South Africa runs with the ball during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group A match between Mexico and South Africa at Mexico City Stadium on June 11, 2026, in Mexico City, Mexico. (Juan Luis Diaz/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images)

“We will forever remember his humility, his extraordinary talent and the pride with which he represented South Africa. Rest in eternal peace, Jayden. You will never be forgotten.”

“Jayden had only recently represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage and distinction,” the SAFPU said in a separate statement on Saturday. “His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family, teammates, clubs, the football fraternity and the country at large.”

No cause of death was immediately known.

Jayden Adams of South Africa competes during a group A match between Mexico and South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City, Mexico, on June 11, 2026. (Wu Wei/Xinhua via Getty Images)

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Adams started South Africa’s World Cup opener, a 2-0 loss to host nation Mexico. He also started the team’s draw against the Czech Republic before coming off the bench in South Africa’s 1-0 win over South Korea that clinched a spot in the Round of 32.

He spent six seasons with Stellenbosch FC before joining Mamelodi Sundowns.

Adams did not play during the knockout stage.

Jayden Adams of South Africa passes during a FIFA World Cup 2026 Group A match against Czechia at Atlanta Stadium in Atlanta, Ga., on June 18, 2026. (Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

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He was a member of Mamelodi Sundowns, which won the CAF Champions League title last year.

Adams scored two goals in nine appearances for South Africa.

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