Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns are in mourning as World Cup midfielder Jayden Adams dies at 25
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South African football is mourning the death of 25-year-old Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder Jayden Adams. While the cause of death remains unconfirmed, reports suggest he may have been struggling with depression.
Why it matters
The sudden passing of a prominent young athlete sparks important conversations regarding mental health support for professional sports figures.
By Alexis Pereira | 11 Jul 2026 15:26 , Last updated: 11 Jul 2026 15:28
Heartbreaking news has emerged for South African football and for everyone who followed the 2026 World Cup . Jayden Adams , the Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder, has died at the age of 25, just days after his participation in the tournament, according to reports published on Saturday by the South African press.
The news first broke through Soccer Laduma on Saturday morning. Neither Mamelodi Sundowns nor the South African Football Association have issued official statements regarding the tragedy.
Brendine Johnson, Adams' mentor, spoke on behalf of the family to Soccer Laduma to confirm the news and deliver a statement that reflected the grief of those closest to him.
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