South Africa player Jayden Adams dies just weeks after playing at World Cup

South African midfielder Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25, just weeks after representing his country at the World Cup.

The footballing world was left saddened after eNCA reported that Adams had passed away, and the cause of his death is unknown.

Police in South Africa said they had opened an investigation after the body of a 25-year-old man was found at a house in Schotschekloof, a suburb in central Cape Town, on Saturday morning.

Adams, who represented Mamelodi Sundowns at club level, made three appearances for his country at the World Cup as South Africa were knocked out by Canada in the last 32.

Tributes have since poured in for the midfielder, with the South African Football Players Union releasing 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.

"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."

Adams' hard work in his footballing career was 'finally paying off'

Adams moved from boyhood club Stellenbosch to Pretoria-based Mamelodi last summer.

Having made his debut for South Africa in 2024, the 25-year-old established himself as a regular for his country, making a big impact on and off the pitch.

He was selected for the World Cup after impressing for his club in the Betway Premiership, registering three goal involvements in 37 matches across all competitions.

Ahead of the tournament, his partner, Aqueelah Adendorf, shared a lengthy post before Bafana Bafana kicked off their World Cup campaign against co-hosts Mexico.

"Good luck with the World Cup, my love. I am so proud of you and everything you've worked for to get here," she wrote.

"Go out there, enjoy every moment and show the world what you're capable of. No matter what happens, I'll always be your biggest supporter. Wishing you success, confidence and an unforgettable tournament. I love you and can't wait to cheer you on!"

It's incredibly sad news for everyone involved, and even more so after the South African Football Federation confirmed that Adams played in the 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic just a day after the death of his grandmother.