South African soccer star Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25, just weeks after representing Bafana Bafana at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
South Africa's Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, announced the news, describing Adams as "one of its brightest young talents," according to the BBC.
A cause of death has not been disclosed.
Adams played in three World Cup matches, helping South Africa reach the knockout stage for the first time in history after a 1-0 victory over South Korea.
He was an unused substitute in the team's 1-0 loss to Canada, which ended their tournament run.
The South African Football Players Union expressed grief, stating that his untimely death "has robbed our nation and the world of a remarkable talent."
The union added, "We will forever remember Jayden Adams for his humility, his extraordinary talent and the joy he brought to the beautiful game."
