South African midfielder Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25, just weeks after participating in the World Cup. Adams, who played his club football for Pretoria-based Mamelodi Sundowns, was part of South Africa’s squad at the tournament last month. He featured in all three group stage matches but did not play in the last-32 fixture when South Africa was eliminated by Canada.

Adams made his international debut in 2022 and earned 13 caps for the national team. His death has prompted expressions of sorrow from various figures within South African football. Gayton McKenzie, the country’s minister of sport, arts and culture, described Adams as "one of its brightest young talents," highlighting the sense of loss felt within the sport.

The South African Football Players Union also issued a statement expressing devastation at the midfielder’s untimely passing. No details surrounding the cause of Adams's death have been publicly released.

Adams’s career was marked by his steady rise within South African football, with his performances at the World Cup marking a significant milestone. His passing has been mourned by teammates, officials, and supporters nationwide.