Death of South Africa player Jayden Adams days after his participation in the World Cup

Image caption: Adams participated in all three group stage matches with the South Africa national team in the World Cup

Published 5 hours ago

Reading time: 1 minute

South Africa national team and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25, days after representing his country in the World Cup.

Adams participated in all three of South Africa's group stage matches in the tournament, with South Africa reaching the knockout rounds before losing to Canada in the round of 32.

South Africa's Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, said in a statement: 'I received the news of Jayden Adams' death with profound sadness and grief.'

He added: 'South African football has lost one of its brightest young talents, and our people mourn the deceased alongside his family, teammates, and millions of fans who watched him grow and develop from a promising player in the youth academy to a key international player for South Africa.'

South Africa police have announced an investigation after the body of the 25-year-old player was found at his home in the Schotschekloof area, a suburb of central Cape Town, on Saturday morning.

McKenzie added: 'The cause of Jayden's death has not yet been confirmed, and I appeal to the media and the public to exercise restraint and empathy, and to refrain from speculation, while his family and Mamelodi Sundowns are given the necessary space and privacy during this difficult time.'

He added: 'The relevant authorities will release any official information in due course.'

The South African Football Players Union expressed its 'deep sorrow over Adams' sudden passing,' who first played for his country in 2022.

Skip most read and continue reading

Syria gives Trump a way to bypass the Strait of Hormuz – article in the Telegraph

Why do mosquitoes bite some people more than others?

Iran hints at 'non-compliance with agreements with the United States,' and a US military delegation visits Lebanon

What do we know about the spiritual 'End of the World' cult that attracted youth and beauties in the 1980s?

The union said: 'Jayden recently represented South Africa at the 2026 World Cup, carrying the nation's hopes with pride, courage, and excellence.'

He added: 'His passing is a tremendous loss to his family, teammates, clubs, the football community, and the entire country. South African football has lost a talented and dedicated player, a young man who still had much more to give.'

Skip short clips and continue reading

Short clips

End of short clips