South African international Jayden Adams, who helped Bafana Bafana reach the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in the nation's history, has died at age 25, the South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) confirmed Saturday.
Adams started South Africa's opening two group matches against Mexico and Czechia before coming off the bench in a 1-0 win over South Korea on June 24 - a result that sent Bafana Bafana into the round of 32, where they were eliminated by co-host Canada. No official cause of death has been released.
Cape Town police confirmed an inquest has been opened following the discovery of his body Saturday, and South Africa's sports minister Gayton McKenzie has asked the public and media to "exercise restraint and compassion" while the circumstances are investigated.
Adams came through the Stellenbosch FC academy before joining Mamelodi Sundowns in January 2025, where he helped the club capture the CAF Champions League title just months before his death.
In a statement, Sundowns called his passing "tragic" and offered a prayer for his loved ones: "We pray that the Almighty God comforts and strengthens the Adams family, his friends and everyone that knew him."
The midfielder is survived by his partner, Aqueelah Adendorf, and their daughter. His death comes just weeks after he lost his grandmother, Marianna Adams, who passed away the day before his World Cup match against Czechia - a game he played through despite the loss.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, and SAFPU each issued condolences, remembering Adams as a player who represented his country "with pride, courage and distinction."
JubileeCast joins the football world in praying for peace and comfort for the Adams family during this difficult time.
