South Africa footballer dies aged 25 just days after World Cup exit

South African football is mourning the death of midfielder Jayden Adams, who has passed away at the age of 25, just weeks after the nation's World Cup exit. The tragic news was confirmed on Saturday afternoon.

A statement by South African Football Players Union reads: "The South African Football Players Union (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 FIFA World Cup, carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, couraging and distinction. His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family, teammates, clubs, the football fraternity and the country at large.

Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT

Football transfer news and rumours plus selected offers and competitions Invalid email

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy

"We extend our deepest condolences to the Adams family, Mamelodi Sundowns, Stellenbosch FC, Bafana Bafana and all those whose lives he touched. South African football has lost a gifted player, a proud servant of the game and a young life that still had so much to offer. May his soul rest in eternal peace."

The midfielder was part of Hugo Broos' squad for this summer's tournament and played in all three group‑stage games against Mexico, the Czech Republic and South Korea. But he was an unused substitute in the 1‑0 defeat to Canada in the round‑of‑32 knockout match.

Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT

It was revealed that Adams played against the Czech Republic just a day after his grandmother passed away.

Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT

In a statement at the time the SAFA said: "The South African Football Association (SAFA) is saddened to hear about the passing of Bafana Bafana midfielder Jayden Adams' grandmother, Marianna.

"The 72-year-old Marianna Adams passed away a day before the South African senior men's national team faced Czechia in a 2026 FIFA World Cup Group A match played at Atlanta Stadium on Thursday 18 June 2026. She passed away in a hospital in Stellenbosch and will be laid to rest on Saturday, 27 June 2026 (South Africa time)."

EXPRESS SPORT ON FB! Get all the best sports news and much more on our Facebook page

Adams made nine senior appearances for South Africa and was part of the Bafana squad that won bronze at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.

A product of the Stellenbosch academy, Adams signed his first professional contract in 2020 before establishing himself as a key figure in the first team.

He made 139 appearances for the Cape Winelands club - the second‑most in their history before securing a move to Mamelodi Sundowns.

Click here to read article