South Africa and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams has died aged 25 after featuring in Bafana Bafana’s run to the World Cup round of 32, the South African Football Players Union confirmed on Saturday.
Adams started two of South Africa’s three group games, and came off the bench in a 1-0 win over South Korea that sealed their place in the knockout rounds for the first time in their history on the evening of June 24.
He was an unused substitute when South Africa were knocked out of the tournament by Canada on June 28.
Both the South African Football Players Union and Ministry of Sport, Arts & Culture confirmed his death on Saturday.
The South African Football Players Union said in a Saturday statement: “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 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.”
