Jayden Adams, a midfielder for South Africa and Mamelodi Sundowns, was found dead less than two weeks after competing in the World Cup.
Adams, 25, started in two of South Africa’s three group stage matches.
He came off the bench in South Africa’s 1-0 victory against South Korea to help the country advance to the knockout rounds for the first time ever.
“Jayden had only recently represented South Africa at the FIFA World Cup, carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage and distinction,” the South African Football Players Union said in a statement, according to ESPN.
“His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family, teammates, clubs, the football fraternity and the country at large,” it added.
Heartbreaking news. South Africa international and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams has sadly passed away at the age of 2,5, @SundayWorldZA confirm. 💔🇿🇦
Adams recently made his World Cup debut with South Africa and played a key role in Mamelodi Sundowns’ successful CAF… pic.twitter.com/NfRXLr57q7
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 11, 2026
ESPN shared further:
Further details of his death were not given.
“Cape Town Central police registered an Inquest for investigation following the discovery of the body of a 25-year-old male on Saturday, 2026-07-11 at 11:06 at a premises in Military Road, Scotscheskloof,” Western Cape South African Police Service spokesperson F.C. van Wyk told ESPN.
“Circumstances surrounding this incident are under investigation.”
Adams started South Africa’s 2-0 loss to Mexico and 1-1 draw with Czechia, playing in the latter game despite the death of his grandmother, Marianna Adams, the previous day.
“When I reached out to Jayden [following the death of his grandmother] to offer my condolences and encouragement, I shall carry forever the humble, appreciative response he gave me,” said Minister of Sports, Arts & Culture of South Africa Gayton McKenzie, according to the outlet.
“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 caliber of young man South Africa has lost,” McKenzie added.
A viral clip of South Africa celebrating its victory against South Korea appears to show Adams sitting quietly amongst his jovial teammates.
Watch below:
Jayden Adams was going through something serious in his life, this was South African players celebrating after their win against South Koreawhile he was sitting quiet 😭😭😭😭💔💔💔💔💔 pic.twitter.com/wxouqLLLeG
— Reymi (@MarmoushEra) July 11, 2026
Fox News noted:
He spent six seasons with Stellenbosch FC before joining Mamelodi Sundowns.
Adams did not play during the knockout stage.
ADVERTISEMENTHe 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.
