South Africa star Jayden Adams died just two weeks after competing at the 2026 World Cup(Image: (Photo by Manuel Velasquez/Getty Images))
Police have launched an investigation into the death of South Africa star Jayden Adams who died just two weeks after representing his nation at this summer’s World Cup. The 25-year-old Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder was found dead at a property in South Africa’s Cape Town on Saturday.
The police have not yet revealed a cause of death and an investigation is now ongoing. A police statement read: “Cape Town central police registered an inquest for investigation following the discovery of the body of a 25-year-old male on Saturday.”
On Sunday Adams’ dad, Juanito, told South African TV news station eNCA that the family were still awaiting the results from an autopsy. He said: “As you all know, it was an untimely death. The family is struggling to process it.
“It won’t be easy to carry on. People say it will become easier, but it won’t. You just learn to live with it.”
Heartbreaking footage has emerged on social media of Adams sat down in the changing rules as his Bafana Bafana teammates celebrate their win over South Korea, which secured their place in the knockout stages of the tournament.
Adams featured in all three of South Africa’s World Cup group stage games, but was an unused substitute for the 1-0 defeat to Canada in the Round of 32 knockout game.
Jayden Adams died aged 25
Tributes have poured in for the midfielder, with his club Memelodi Sundowns leading the way. They said: “Mamelodi Sundowns are devastated by the tragic passing of Jayden Adams.
“It is with heartfelt sorrow that Mamelodi Sundowns can confirm the passing of highly talented Bafana Bafana midfielder, Jayden Adams. The Chairman and the Motsepe Family, the Board of Directors, Technical Team, Players, Management, Staff, Supporters of Mamelodi Sundowns FC & the entire Yellow Nation express their deepest condolences to the family and friends as we mourn the loss of Jayden.
“We pray that the Almighty God comforts and strengthens the Adams family, his friends and everyone that knew him. Sundowns respectfully ask that the family’s privacy be honoured as they grieve this profound loss.”
Jayden Adams in action for South Africa at the 2026 World Cup(Image: Steve Limentani/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
The South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) also paid tribute, and said: “The South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) is devastated by the untimely passing of Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder Jayden Adams,” the statement read.
“Jayden had only recently represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage and distinction. His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family, teammates, clubs, the football fraternity and the country at large.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the Adams family, Mamelodi Sundowns, Stellenbosch FC, Bafana Bafana and all those whose lives he touched.
“South African Football has lost a gifted player, a proud servant of the game and a young life that still had so much to offer. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”