The football world has been plunged into mourning following the death of a 25-year-old player who starred in the 2026 World Cup just days ago
South African football is in mourning after Jayden Adams passed away at the age of 25.
His tragic death comes just weeks after the country's World Cup departure. Tributes have flooded in after the devastating news was confirmed on Saturday afternoon.
"It is with heartfelt sorrow that Mamelodi Sundowns can confirm the passing of highly talented Bafana Bafana midfielder, Jayden Adams," his club wrote.
"The Chairman and the Motsepe Family, the Board of Directors, Technical Team, Players, Management, Staff, Supporters of Mamelodi Sundowns FC & the entire Yellow Nation express their deepest condolences to the family and friends as we mourn the loss of Jayden.
"We pray that the Almighty God comforts and strengthens the Adams family, his friends and everyone that knew him.
"Sundowns respectfully ask that the family's privacy be honoured as they grieve this profound loss."
Adams featured in all three of South Africa's group stage matches at the tournament and was an unused substitute in the 1-0 defeat to Canada in the round of 32. Adams' side Mamelodi Sundowns are yet to make an official statement regarding the player's death. At present, his cause of death has not been released to the public.
After the World Cup, the Sundowns had granted him an extra two weeks of leave so he could rest and recover from the World Cup.
He was part of the Bafana Bafana side who made it to the round of 32, before being knocked out by Canada.
The South African Football Players Union offered their condolences in a post.
They said: "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, courage and distinction. His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family, team-mates, clubs, the football fraternity and the 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. 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."
Alongside the statement, they wrote on their X account: "Death has cruelly stolen one of our own.
"It has robbed our nation of a remarkable footballer, but it will never take away the legacy Jayden Adams leaves behind. We will forever remember his humility, his extraordinary talent and the pride with which he represented South Africa.
"Rest in eternal peace, Jayden. You will never be forgotten."
Cape Town City FC posted: "Everyone at Cape Town City FC is deeply shocked and saddened by the heartbreaking news of the passing of Jayden Adams.
"Our heartfelt condolences are with Jayden’s family and loved ones, as well as everyone at Mamelodi Sundowns and Stellenbosch Football Club during this incredibly difficult time. Rest in peace, Jayden."