South Africa and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25, just weeks after featuring for his country in the World Cup.

Adams featured in all three of South Africa’s group matches at the tournament, where they reached the knockout stages before losing to co-hosts Canada in the round of 32.

“It is with deep shock and sadness that I learned of the passing of Jayden Adams,” South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, said in a statement.

“South African football has lost one of its brightest young talents, and our nation mourns alongside his family, his teammates and the millions of fans who watched him grow from a promising academy prospect to a full-fledged Bafana Bafana international.”

South African police said they had opened an investigation after the body of a 25-year-old man was found on Saturday morning in a house in Schotschekloof, a suburb in central Cape Town.

McKenzie added: “Jayden’s cause of death has not yet been confirmed, and I would like to appeal to members of the media and the public to exercise restraint and compassion, and to refrain from speculation, while his family and Mamelodi Sundowns are given the space and privacy they need at this incredibly difficult time.

“Any official information will be communicated by the relevant parties in due course.”

Adams started the 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic in Group A despite learning that his grandmother had died just hours before kick-off.

The South African Footballers’ Union said it was “devastated by the untimely death” of Adams, who made his debut for his country in 2022.

“Jayden had recently represented South Africa at the 2026 World Cup, carrying the nation’s hopes with pride, courage and distinction.

“His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family, his teammates, his clubs, the football fraternity and the country at large.

“South African football has lost a talented player, a proud servant of the game and a young life who still had much to offer.”

Adams began his career at Stellenbosch FC, before moving to Mamelodi Sundowns in January 2025, where he won league and African Champions League titles.

He was part of the South Africa team that reached the semi-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations before being called up to Hugo Broos’ squad for the World Cup, where the team made history by reaching the round of 16 of the competition for the first time.

“It is incredibly sad to hear that South African midfielder Jayden Adams passed away just weeks after taking part in his country’s historic FIFA World Cup campaign,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

“My thoughts and condolences, as well as those of everyone at FIFA and the global football community, are with his family, friends and teammates. The Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns star will be greatly missed. May he rest in peace.”