South African footballer Jayden Adams, who played in all three group stage matches at the World Cup, has died at the age of 25, the South African Football Players Union confirmed today.
The cause of death is unknown.
“The South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) is deeply saddened by the untimely passing of Mamelodi Sundowns and South Africa national team midfielder, Jayden Adams,” the SAFPU said in a statement, as reported by ESPN.
“Jayden recently represented South Africa at the World Cup, carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage, and dignity. His death is an immeasurable loss for his family, teammates, clubs, the football community, and the entire country,” the statement added.
Adams started two of South Africa’s three group stage matches and came off the bench in the 1-0 victory over South Korea, which secured the team’s first-ever advancement to the knockout stage.
He remained on the bench as a substitute when South Africa lost to Canada in the round of 16.
Adams won the CAF Champions League with Mamelodi Sundowns in May.
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