Jayden Adams, a 25-year-old midfielder for Mamelodi Sundowns and the South African national team (Bafana Bafana), has died during the pre-season break following the 2026 World Cup. The circumstances of his death remain under investigation.

His passing comes just weeks after the loss of his grandmother, Marianna Adams, 72, who died on June 17, one day before Adams and his teammates faced Czech Republic in the World Cup group stage match in Atlanta. Adams nonetheless took to the field for that game. He had played in South Africa's opening matches of the tournament before being left on the bench for the final match against Canada, which ended in a 1-0 elimination in the round of 16. The national team had reached the knockout stage for the first time.

According to several South African media outlets, Adams suffered from depression and may have taken his own life. His partner reportedly stated that after his grandmother's death, Adams had difficulty eating and was battling depression, and that during the World Cup he no longer seemed like himself. A video circulated on social media showing Adams sitting alone on a bench while teammates celebrated around him.

However, other local media reports, also relayed by Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, suggest the death may have been caused by food poisoning, with no voluntary act involved. According to these accounts, Adams had gone to hospital with symptoms of suspected food poisoning, which may have been underestimated or treated incorrectly by an inexperienced nurse.

Investigators conducted a search of Adams's home in a suburb of Cape Town for several hours, and the inquiry will need to clarify what actually happened.

The South African Footballers Union (SAFPU) issued a statement mourning the loss, describing Adams as having represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with pride, courage and distinction. The union expressed condolences to the Adams family, Mamelodi Sundowns, Stellenbosch FC, Bafana Bafana and all those whose lives were touched by his presence.

South Africa's Minister of Sport, Gayton McKenzie, also issued a message of condolence, stating that South African football had lost one of its brightest young talents, without making any reference to the cause of death.