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South African midfielder Jayden Adams has passed away at the age of 25, just days after the death of his grandmother.
Adams recently represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, starting in both group matches against Mexico and the Czech Republic. Tragically, his grandmother died only hours after he played against the Czech Republic. The South African Football Association described this as a “massive loss” for the young player, who continued to feature for the national team despite his personal grief.
He did not play in South Africa’s final group game against Canada, a defeat that resulted in the team’s elimination from the tournament. Less than two weeks after the World Cup exit, news broke of Adams’ untimely death.
In a heartfelt statement, the South African Football Players Union expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder. They praised Adams for carrying the nation’s hopes with pride, courage, and distinction during the World Cup, calling his passing an immeasurable loss to his family, teammates, clubs, and the wider football community.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the Adams family, Mamelodi Sundowns, Stellenbosch FC, Bafana Bafana, and all those whose lives he touched,” the union said. “South African football has lost a gifted player, a proud servant of the game, and a young life with so much potential. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
The cause of Adams’ death has not yet been disclosed.
Brendine Johnson, a close acquaintance of Adams, shared with Soccer Laduma that the family is still grieving and requests privacy. Johnson recalled a recent conversation with Adams, noting the midfielder’s positive outlook about returning home and future prospects after the World Cup and winning the CAF championship.
“This passing has ripped everybody apart,” Johnson said. “Nobody expected this.”