Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams, who played for South Africa in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has passed away at the age of 25.
Authorities discovered Adams dead on Saturday morning in a residence within the central Cape Town suburb of Schotschekloof. Neither the authorities nor his family have disclosed the precise cause of death.
His passing marks a second tragic loss for his grieving family, following the death of his 72-year-old grandmother, Marianna Adams, on June 17—just a day before South Africa’s crucial group-stage match against the Czech Republic.
Despite his intense grief, Adams chose to stay with the squad, starting the match and playing through the immense emotional strain.
Brendine Johnson, Adams’ mentor and family representative, confirmed the tragedy and shared the profound shock felt by the midfielder’s loved ones.
“This passing has ripped everybody apart, returning from the World Cup just now, and then getting such news. Nobody expected this,” Johnson said.
“I had a close conversation with him on Thursday, the guy was really positive on returning back, and being able to return after the World Cup… knowing what lies ahead, he was prepared.”
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) also confirmed the player’s passing in a post on X.
South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, expressed profound shock over the loss, describing Adams as one of the country’s brightest football prospects.
The South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) also paid tribute to Adams, praising his dedication to the national team under immensely difficult personal circumstances.
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Backstory
Jayden Adams’ death comes just weeks after he helped South Africa make history at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where Bafana Bafana reached the knockout stage for the first time.
The 25-year-old midfielder featured prominently throughout the tournament despite enduring personal tragedy after the death of his grandmother on the eve of one of South Africa’s group-stage matches. Adams went on to play through the difficult period, earning widespread admiration for his resilience and commitment to the national team.
Before his breakthrough on the global stage, Adams had established himself as one of South Africa’s brightest young footballers. He rose through the ranks at Stellenbosch FC before securing a move to Mamelodi Sundowns in 2025, where he played a key role in the club’s CAF Champions League triumph.
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