South African football has been rocked by the death of Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams at the age of 25.
Jayden Adams, who recently returned from the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, died today, July 11. Multiple South African media outlets reported the news after it was confirmed by people close to the player.
The cause of death has not been officially announced, while the South African Football Association and Mamelodi Sundowns have not issued formal statements at the time of writing this report.
The midfielder was part of South Africa’s 2026 World Cup squad and featured in all three group-stage matches against Mexico, the Czech Republic, and South Korea as Bafana Bafana reached the knockout rounds. He did not play in the round-of-32 defeat to Canada.
His death comes just weeks after he suffered a personal loss following the passing of his grandmother, Marianna Adams, while he was on World Cup duty with the national team.
Adams earned nine senior international caps and built his reputation at Stellenbosch before completing a move to Mamelodi Sundowns in 2025. He quickly added domestic and continental honours, helping Sundowns win the Betway Premiership and CAF Champions League.
The former Stellenbosch academy graduate made 139 appearances for the club, the second-highest total in its history, and played a key role in lifting the 2023 Carling Knockout title before his transfer to Pretoria.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Adams’ mentor, Brendine Johnson, appealed for privacy as relatives came to terms with the tragedy.
“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,” he said via The Mirror.
“This passing has ripped everybody apart, returning from the World Cup just now and then getting such news, you know. 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, and 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.”
Last month, SAFA had offered its condolences after the death of Adams’ grandmother during the World Cup.
“This is a massive loss for Jayden’s family, friends, and relatives, and we join in mourning the loss of his grandmother. We as SAFA offer our deepest condolences, and may her soul rest in peace,” SAFA president Danny Jordaan said at the time.
Adams was expected to rejoin Sundowns next week after being granted extended leave following the World Cup. Instead, news of his death has left South African football in mourning, with tributes expected from across the game.
