Tributes have been paid to the South African footballer, Jayden Adams, who died aged 25.
Adams' death was confirmed, having featured at his country's World Cup campaign, which saw them advance to the last 32 of the tournament where they lost to co hosts, Canada.
The midfielder's death was confirmed by the country's minister of sport, Gayton McKenzie, who released this statement.
"It is with profound shock and a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing of Jayden Adams, midfielder for Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana, at the age of 25", he said.
He continued: "South African football has lost one of its brightest young talents, and our nation mourns alongside his family, his team-mates and the millions of supporters who watched him grow from a promising academy prospect into a full Bafana Bafana international".
Elsewhere, Adams' club, Mamelodi Sundowns FC, also released a statement.
"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", they said. "We pray that the Almighty God comforts and strengthens the Adams family, his friends and everyone who knew him".
It is with heartfelt sorrow that Mamelodi Sundowns can confirm the passing of highly talented Bafana Bafana midfielder, Jayden Adams.
The Chairman… pic.twitter.com/fVwo92RDCA
— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) July 11, 2026
FIFA President, Gianni Infantino also paid tribute to Adams, saying his "thoughts and condolences, as well as those of everyone at FIFA and the global football community, are with his family, friends and teammates".
His players' union also paid homage to Adams, saying his"death has cruelly stolen one of our own", and "the South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) is devastated by the untimely passing of Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder, Jayden Adams.
"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".
Prior to the World Cup, Jayden Adams' partner, Aqueelah Adenorf had shared her support for the footballer. The couple have a five year old daughter together.
Just two weeks before South Africa's opening group game against co hosts, Mexico, Adenorf said on Instagram: “Watching you achieve something this big has filled my heart with so much pride".
“From the hard work, sacrifices, early mornings, disappointments, and moments nobody saw — you kept going, stayed disciplined, and trusted God through it all,” Adendorf continued. “And now look at you… representing your country on the national team".
She added, “I don’t think you even realize how inspiring you are. You deserve every single moment of this because I’ve seen how much you’ve worked for it. Through every challenge, you never gave up on your dream, and that alone makes me so proud to stand beside you and support you through it all".
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