Jayden Adams: South Africa World Cup player dies aged 25
South African professional footballer Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25. Police have launched an investigation after his body was discovered at a residence in Cape Town.
Why it matters
The sudden death of a national athlete who recently competed in the 2026 World Cup has prompted national mourning and an official police inquiry.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Adams featured in all three group games for South Africa at the World Cup
South Africa and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25, just weeks after featuring for his country at the World Cup.
Adams featured in all three of South Africa's group games at the tournament, where they reached the knockout stages before losing to co-hosts Canada in the round of 32.
"It is with profound shock and a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing of Jayden Adams," South Africa's minister of sport, arts and culture Gayton McKenzie said, in a statement.
"South African football has lost one of its brightest young talents, and our nation mourns alongside his family, his team-mates and the millions of supporters who watched him grow from a promising academy prospect into a full Bafana Bafana international."
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