South Africa midfielder Jayden Adams dies at 25

South African international midfielder Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25, the South African Football Players Union (SAFPU), Mamelodi Sundowns and the national team confirmed on Monday. SAFPU said Adams's passing had caused deep sorrow, noting that he had represented his country with pride at the 2026 World Cup. Adams featured in South Africa's group-stage matches against Mexico, the Czech Republic and South Korea under coach Hugo Broos. South Africa were eliminated in the round of 32 after a 1-0 defeat to Canada. The midfielder earned nine caps and was part of the South Africa squad that won a bronze medal at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations. He played the match against the Czech Republic a day after the death of his grandmother, according to reports. Adams's family and Mamelodi Sundowns have not publicly disclosed the cause of death and asked that their privacy be respected during the period of mourning. No further details were immediately available.