A 25-year-old South African World Cup star, Jayden Adams, has died after returning from the 2026 mundial.
The death of the Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder was confirmed by the Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie.
Adams played in all three of South Africa’s group games at the 2026 World Cup hosted by the United States of America, Canada, and Mexico.
He played against co-hosts Mexico, Czechia, and South Korea in Group A.
Bafana Bafana were eliminated in the Round of 32 by Canada.
McKenzie said: “It’s with profound shock and a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing of Jayden Adams.
“South African football has lost one of its brightest young talents, and our nation mourns alongside his family, his teammates and the millions of supporters who watched him grow from a promising academy prospect into a full Bafana Bafana international.”
Police have opened investigation into the death of Adams, whose body was found at a house in Schotschekloof, a suburb in central Cape Town, on July 11, 2026.
McKenzie added: “The cause of Jayden’s passing has not yet been confirmed, and I wish to appeal to members of the media and the public to exercise restraint and compassion, and refrain from speculation, while his family and Mamelodi Sundowns are given the space and privacy they need at this incredibly difficult time.”
