NEWYou can now listen to Pakinomist articles!
A professional footballer who took part in the World Cup less than two weeks ago has died aged 25.
The South Africa Football Players Union announced the “untimely passing” of midfielder Jayden Adams.
“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,” the union said in a social media post.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON Pakinomist
Jayden Adams of South Africa runs with the ball during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group A match between Mexico and South Africa at Mexico City Stadium on June 11, 2026 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Juan Luis Diaz/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images)
“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.”
“Jayden had only recently represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and carried the nation’s hopes with pride, courage and distinction,” SAFPU said in a separate statement on Saturday. “His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family, teammates, clubs, the football fraternity and the country as a whole.”
No cause of death was immediately known.
Jayden Adams of South Africa competes during a Group A match between Mexico and South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City, Mexico on June 11, 2026. (Wu Wei/Xinhua via Getty Images)
THE NORWAY WC TEAM CHANGES HOTELS IN FLORIDA AFTER NOISE COMPLAINTS: ‘WE HAVE TO MOVE’
Adams started South Africa’s World Cup opener, a 2-0 loss to host nation Mexico. He also started the team’s draw against the Czech Republic before coming off the bench in South Africa’s 1-0 win over South Korea that clinched a place in the round of 16.
He spent six seasons with Stellenbosch FC before joining Mamelodi Sundowns.
Adams did not play during the knockout stage.
Jayden Adams of South Africa passes during a FIFA World Cup 2026 Group A match against the Czech Republic at Atlanta Stadium in Atlanta, Ga., on June 18, 2026. (Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE Pakinomist APP
He was a member of Mamelodi Sundowns who won the CAF Champions League title last year.
Adams scored two goals in nine appearances for South Africa.
