CAPE TOWN – The South African football fraternity has been left heartbroken following the passing of Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams, who died in Cape Town on Saturday at the age of 25.
Adams’ untimely passing comes just weeks after representing South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada. The talented midfielder played a key role in Bafana Bafana’s memorable campaign, which saw Hugo Broos’ side reach the Round of 32 before narrowly losing 1-0 to hosts Canada.
The sad news follows an emotional period in Adams’ life after the recent passing of his beloved grandmother, Marianna Adams, who died shortly before South Africa’s Group A clash against Czechia. Despite his personal loss, Adams courageously took to the field, helping Bafana Bafana secure a 1-1 draw and their first point of the tournament.
Tributes have begun pouring in from across the football world as Bafana Bafana, Mamelodi Sundowns, former teammates, clubs and fans honour the life of a player whose career held so much promise.
“Today, South African football mourn the loss of a talented player whose passion, dedication, and love for the beautiful game inspired many,” said Bafana Bafana statement via the X platform.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, loved ones, teammates, and everyone affected by this devastating loss.”
Today, South African football mourn the loss of a talented player whose passion, dedication, and love for the beautiful game inspired many. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, loved ones, teammates, and everyone affected by this devastating loss.
May his soul rest in… pic.twitter.com/pwE6TpfkcK
— Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) July 11, 2026
Adams made over 100 appearances for Stellenbosch FC before earning a move to Sundowns, where he continued to establish himself as one of South Africa’s finest midfielders.
“It is with heartfelt sorrow that Mamelodi Sundowns can confirm the passing of highly talented Bafana Bafana midfielder, Jayden Adams,” said Sundowns.
“The Chairman and the Motsepe Family, the Board of Directors, Technical Team, Players, Management, Staff, Supporters of Mamelodi Sundowns FC and the entire Yellow Nation express their deepest condolences to the family and friends as we mourn the loss of Jayden.”
𝗠𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗱𝗶 𝗦𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗱𝗲𝘃𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗰 𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗳 𝗝𝗮𝘆𝗱𝗲𝗻 𝗔𝗱𝗮𝗺𝘀
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
“It is with profound sadness that Stellenbosch Football Club has learned of the untimely passing of our former player Jayden Adams,” said Stellenbosch FC.
“The Club wishes to extend its deepest condolences to Jayden’s family and loved ones, as well as everyone at Mamelodi Sundowns, and calls for their privacy to be respected during this unimaginably difficult time.”
It is with profound sadness that Stellenbosch FC has learned of the untimely passing of Jayden Adams.
Jayden leaves a lasting legacy in Stellenbosch and an enduring impact on South African football. He will be deeply missed, and never forgotten.https://t.co/GGogFuJPG7
— Stellenbosch FC (@StellenboschFC) July 11, 2026
Sending our deepest condolences to Jayden’s family, friends and everyone at @BafanaBafana.
— FIFA (@FIFAcom) July 11, 2026
The Premier Soccer League is saddened to learn of the untimely passing of @Masandawana midfielder, Jayden Adams.
We send our condolences to the Adams family, Mamelodi Sundowns Football Club and the football community at large. pic.twitter.com/cNnji44nEJ
— Official PSL (@OfficialPSL) July 11, 2026
