South Africa’s Jayden Adams dies shortly after returning from World Cup
Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder Jayden Adams has died just two weeks after returning from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where South Africa enjoyed a historic run.
According to reports, Adams was due to depart for Sundowns’ pre-season tour of Europe on Saturday when the news of his sudden death broke, which sent shockwaves across the South African football community.
The details surrounding the death of Adams remain unclear, but South African football news outlet Soccer Laduma reported that the player’s representative and family members have confirmed his passing.
He was 25.
Additionally, the victim’s mentor, Brendine Johnson, who spoke to Laduma, corroborated the story.
Johnson stated that he was shocked by the development, as he still had a discussion with Adams on Thursday.
“At this moment, things are still raw, you know, things are still raw. The family wouldn’t want to be contacted right now; they wouldn’t be able to answer anyone. This passing has ripped everybody apart, returning from the World Cup just now and then got such news, you know,” Johnson stated.
He added, “I had a close conversation with him on Thursday. The guy was really positive about returning back, and being able to return after the World Cup and go, you know, being a CAF champion, knowing what lies ahead, he was prepared. He doesn’t waste time away, being at home with his family.
“So at this moment, I don’t even have words to say, but we ask that the family’s privacy be respected. Yes, I can tell you that he passed on. Nobody expected this.”
Adams played three matches at the World Cup in North America as South Africa reached the knockout round of the tournament for the first time in the country’s history.
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