South African footballer dies weeks after playing World Cup

South Africa and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams, who featured in all three of his country’s group matches at this summer’s World Cup, has died aged 25.

A cause of death is not yet known.

The minister of sport, Gayton McKenzie, released a statement saying: “It is with profound shock and a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing of Jayden Adams, midfielder for Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana, at the age of 25.

“South African football has lost one of its brightest young talents, and our nation mourns alongside his family, his team-mates and the millions of supporters who watched him grow from a promising academy prospect into a full Bafana Bafana international.”

Meanwhile, FIFA president Gianni Infantino also offered his condolences, saying in a statement: “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.”

In a statement, his club, Mamelodi Sundowns, also confirmed the midfielder’s passing:

“The chairman and the Motsepe family, the board of directors, technical team, players, management, staff, supporters of Mamelodi Sundowns FC & the entire Yellow Nation express their deepest condolences to the family and friends as we mourn the loss of Jayden.

“We pray that the Almighty God comforts and strengthens the Adams family, his friends and everyone who knew him.”

And the South African Football Players Union wrote in a statement: “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 World Cup, carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage, and distinction. His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family, team-mates, 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 Africa exited the tournament in the round of 32 after defeat to co-hosts Canada, a game Adams did not feature in. (Skysports)