CAPE TOWN — South African international midfielder Jayden Adams, who helped his country reach the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has died at the age of 25, South African authorities and football officials said.
Adams was found dead at a property in the Schotsche Kloof area of Cape Town on July 11, according to police. Authorities have opened an inquest into the circumstances surrounding his death and have not disclosed a cause of death pending further investigation and post-mortem examinations.
The death was confirmed by South Africa's Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, who described Adams as one of the country's brightest young football talents. The South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) also announced his death, calling it an immeasurable loss for his family, teammates and the wider football community.
Adams recently represented South Africa at the 2026 World Cup, appearing in all three of the team's group-stage matches as Bafana Bafana advanced to the knockout rounds for the first time in the nation's history. South Africa was eliminated by Canada in the Round of 32.
Born in Cape Town, Adams began his professional career with Stellenbosch FC before joining Mamelodi Sundowns, where he became a key figure in midfield. During his career, he helped Sundowns win domestic honors and the CAF Champions League, while also establishing himself as a regular member of the national team.
FIFA paid tribute to the midfielder, with President Gianni Infantino expressing sadness at the news of Adams' death shortly after South Africa's landmark World Cup campaign. Moments of silence were observed at World Cup matches following confirmation of his passing.
Adams' father, Juanito Adams, said the family was awaiting autopsy results and asked for privacy as relatives struggled to come to terms with the loss. South African officials, including McKenzie, urged the public and media to avoid speculation about the circumstances of his death while the investigation remains ongoing.
Tributes continued to pour in from across South African football and the international game on Monday, with teammates, supporters and football organizations honoring Adams' contributions to club and country.
Police said the investigation into the circumstances of his death remains active, and no further official details have been released.
