South Africa and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adam’s has been pronounced dead on Saturday evening just a few days after playing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Adams, 25, featured for the Bafana Bafana at the ongoing World Cup in Canada, Mexico and United States, playing in all the three group games.
South Africa’s Minister of sport, arts and culture Gayton McKenzie said, in a statement, “it is with profound shock and a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing of Jayden Adams. 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.”
Police in South Africa has opened an investigation after Adams body was found at a house in Schotschekloof, a suburb in central Cape Town on Saturday.
McKenzie stated that the cause of Jayden’s passing has not yet been confirmed and appealed to the public to exercise restraint and compassion, and to refrain from speculation, while his family and Mamelodi Sundowns are given the space and privacy they need.
“Any official information will be communicated by the appropriate parties in due course.” He said.
Adams began playing football at Stellenbosch, before moving to Mamelodi Sundowns in January 2025, helping the team to win the 2024/25 PSL League title and most recently the CAF Champions League.
FIFA President also conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the family and the football fraternity in South Africa and beyond.
“It’s 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 Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns star will be sorely missed. May he rest in peace.” He stated.
