South Africa international Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25, the South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) confirmed on July 11, 2026. The midfielder, who played three matches for Bafana Bafana during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, passed away just two weeks after representing his country on the global stage.

"Death has cruelly stolen one of our own," SAFPU said in a statement. "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."

Mamelodi Sundowns, Adams' club, and the South African government's Ministry of Sports, Arts and Culture later confirmed the news. South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) extended its "deepest condolences" to Adams' family and the football community, calling him a "gifted player, a proud servant of the game" whose "young life still had so much to offer."

FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed his condolences, stating, "My thoughts and condolences, as well as those of everyone at FIFA and the global football community, are with his family, friends and teammates. The Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns star will be sorely missed. May he rest in peace."

Adams made three appearances during the World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, starting in the opening match against Mexico and the draw with Czech Republic, and coming on as a substitute in the 1-0 win over South Korea. South Africa advanced to the knockout stages for the first time in their history, finishing second in Group A with four points.

At the club level, Adams made 67 appearances for Mamelodi Sundowns since joining from Stellenbosch FC in January 2025, including 37 in the 2025-26 season. He scored his first and only senior international goal in a 2025 World Cup qualifier against Benin in March 2025.

South African Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie urged the public to avoid speculation about the cause of Adams' death, stating, "The cause of Jayden’s passing has not yet been confirmed, and I wish to appeal to members of the media and the public to exercise restraint and compassion."