South Africa star Jayden Adams dies at 25 just days after World Cup 2026 exit | OneFootball

South Africa star Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25 with the Bafana Bafana community mourning the shock loss just weeks after he featured at the World Cup 2026.

The Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder played three times for his country and was part of Hugo Broos’ side that advanced to the last 32, creating history in the first knock-out Worl Cup match in their history before being eliminated by co-hosts Canada.

Adams played all three group games, starting the opener against Mexico and then featuring as a substitute against Czech Republic and South Korea.

Details surrounding Adams' passing remain unclear, with the South African Football Players Union paying tribute to the player 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 2026 FIFA 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.

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South Africa's Jayden Adams in action against South Korea (Reuters)

“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.”

A bright young talent in South African football, Adams made a name for himself at Stellebosch FC before moving on to Mamelodi Sundowns and establishing himself in the national team set-up.

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Jayden Adams played three times at the World Cup 2026 (Reuters)

Born in Cape Town, Adams enjoyed some of his best football to date for the Sundowns in the latter stages of last season, with victory in the CAF Champions League final against Moroccan outfit AS FAR.

Adams lost his grandmother Marianna Adams two weeks ago, with the South African FA paying tribute to her, with the player showing remarkable resilience to continue playing for Bafana Bafana against Czechia.

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Julian Quinones of Mexico is challenged by Jayden Adams of South Africa (Getty)

Adams collected nine caps for Bafana Bafana in all and scored two goals.

“It is with profound shock and a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing of Jayden Adams,” South Africa Minister of Sport Gayton McKenzie said. “South Africa has lost one of its brightest young talents and our nation mourns alongside his family, his teammates and the millions of supporters who watched him grow from a promising academy prospect into a full Bafana Bafana international.

“I will always remember watching Bafana’s match against Czechia in Atlanta. I recall noting how unusually quiet Jayden seemed on the bench in the second half, after he had been substituted, it was only afterwards that we learnt he had taken to the field that day carrying the fresh grief of losing his grandmother, Marianna, who had passed away only hours before kick-off.”