South Africa and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams died at age 25, the South African Football Players Union confirmed Saturday. Adams recently featured for Bafana Bafana in their FIFA World Cup run to the round of 32. He started two group stage matches, including a 1-0 victory over South Korea that secured the team's knockout stage berth.

Adams also started in losses to Mexico and a draw with Czechia, playing despite his grandmother's death the day before one match. He later came off the bench in the win against South Korea, his final appearance. Earlier in the year, Adams won the CAF Champions League with Mamelodi Sundowns, dedicating his medal to a former teammate who died in 2023.

His passing represents a significant loss for South African football. Adams had established himself as a prominent player, having joined Mamelodi Sundowns from Stellenbosch FC in January 2025. His career was cut short just weeks after fulfilling a World Cup dream.