Cape Town: South Africa international and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25, just weeks after representing his country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Adams featured in all three of South Africa’s group matches as the team reached the knockout stages for the first time in their history. Police confirmed an investigation is underway after a 25-year-old man was found dead at a residence in Cape Town. The cause of death has not yet been officially determined. Tributes have poured in from across the football world. Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie described Adams as “one of South Africa’s brightest young talents,” while FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed condolences to his family, teammates and fans. Adams began his professional career at Stellenbosch FC before joining Mamelodi Sundowns in 2025, where he won domestic and continental titles. He made his international debut in 2022 and was part of the squad that reached the semi-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. His death marks a significant loss to South African football.
