South African Midfielder Jayden Adams Dies at Age 25; Cause Unconfirmed

South African midfielder Jayden Adams died at age 25. Gayton McKenzie, South Africa’s minister of sport, arts and culture, confirmed the death in a statement on Saturday. “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,” McKenzie posted on X.

Adams started in South Africa’s Group A matches against Mexico and Czech Republic at the 2026 World Cup. McKenzie said Adams played the second game only hours after learning that his grandmother had died. He came on as a second-half substitute in the third game against South Korea.

Adams helped South Africa reach the World Cup knockout stage for the first time. A moment of silence in honor of Adams was held ahead of the World Cup quarterfinal between Norway and England in Miami Gardens, Florida, on Saturday. Adams played several seasons for Stellenbosch before joining Mamelodi Sundowns last year.

He helped the club win the CAF Champions League this year. “The cause of Jayden’s passing has not yet been confirmed,” McKenzie said. ” “Death has cruelly stolen one of our own. It has robbed our nation of a remarkable footballer,” the South African Football Players Union posted on X.

“We will forever remember his humility, his extraordinary talent and the pride with which he represented South Africa. Rest in eternal peace, Jayden. ” South African President Cyril Ramaphosa also expressed condolences.