Jayden Adams, the South African midfielder who featured in all three group stage matches at the World Cup, has passed away at the age of 25.

He started the opening match, a 2-0 loss to Mexico, and the 1-1 draw against Czechia, where he was replaced in both. Adams entered as a substitute in the 1-0 victory over South Korea but did not feature in the 1-0 round-of-32 exit to Canada.

Sport minister Gayton McKenzie issued a statement: “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 teammates and the millions of supporters who watched him grow from a promising academy prospect into a full Bafana Bafana international.”

The cause of death was not revealed by the minister. Authorities have launched an inquiry following the discovery of a 25-year-old man's body at a residence in Schotsche Kloof, central Cape Town, on Saturday morning. “Circumstances surrounding this incident are under investigation,” Western Cape police spokesperson FC van Wyk told AFP.

Adams progressed through the youth ranks at Stellenbosch, becoming the club's first academy graduate to secure a professional deal. He recorded 139 appearances for the team, contributing to their 2023 Carling Knockout triumph, prior to his transfer to Mamelodi Sundowns in January 2025.

The South African Football Players Union stated: “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, 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.”