Sadness descended on football circles in South Africa after the announcement of the death of the star of the national team and Mamelodi Sundowns club, Jayden Adams, days after his country’s exit from the World Cup. The South African Football Players Association issued a statement expressing its deep shock, saying: “The Federation received with great sadness the news of the tragic and untimely death of Jayden Adams (25 years old), a midfielder for Mamelodi Sundowns and the Bafana Bafana national team. Jayden finally represented his country in the 2026 World Cup finals with pride, courage and ability, carrying the hopes of the nation.” The statement added: "His passing represents an irreparable loss to his family, his colleagues, his clubs, the sports community and the entire country. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, to the Sun Downs Club, to the national team, and to all those whose lives the deceased touched. Football in South Africa has lost a remarkable talent, a loyal servant of the game, and a young woman who still had a lot to offer." Until now, the family, Mamelodi Sundowns Club, and the South African national team have not officially announced the cause of death, while those close to the player have asked to respect the privacy of his family in this difficult time, while awaiting the issuance of an official statement revealing more details. Adams was a mainstay in the roster of Belgian coach Hugo Bros during the World Cup this summer, as he played in the three matches of the South African national team in the group stage against Mexico, the Czech Republic, and South Korea, while he remained on the bench during the round of 32 match, which South Africa lost to Canada with a score of (0-1).