South Africa midfielder Jayden Adams has passed away at the age of 25.
Adams was a part of Bafana Bafana’s squad at the , making three appearances as they finished second in Group A and for the first time in four attempts. They were knocked out by co-hosts Canada in the Round of 32.
Adams, who lifted the South African Premiership in 2025 and the 2026 CAF Champions League with Mamelodi Sundowns, was part of the South Africa team that finished third at the 2023 CAF Africa Cup of Nations.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said: "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 teammates. The Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns star will be sorely missed. May he rest in peace."
The South African Football Players Union said in a statement: “The 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 World Cup, carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage, and distinction.
“His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family, teammates, clubs, the football fraternity and country at large. We extend our deepest condolences to the Adams family, Mamelodi Sundowns, Stellenbosch FC, Bafana Bafana and all those whose lives he touched.”
Sources: FIFA Official
