The 25-year-old featured in Bafana Bafana’s historic World Cup campaign just weeks before his death.

Cape Town, South Africa (Running Africa) — The football community is mourning the death of South African midfielder Jayden Adams, with tributes pouring in from across the sport following the passing of the Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana star at the age of 25.

South African police have opened an investigation after Adams’ body was discovered at a property in Schotschekloof, Cape Town, on Saturday morning. Authorities have not released the cause of death, while Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie appealed for privacy, urging the public to avoid speculation as Adams’ family grieves.

Adams had recently played a pivotal role in South Africa’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, helping Bafana Bafana reach the tournament’s knockout stage for the first time in the nation’s history.

The midfielder started South Africa’s group-stage matches against Mexico and the Czech Republic before making an influential appearance off the bench in the historic victory over South Korea, a result that secured the country’s maiden qualification for the FIFA World Cup knockout rounds.

Tributes quickly emerged from across the global football community.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the news as “so incredibly sad,” while the Confederation of African Football (CAF) said African football had “lost one of its own.”

The South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) remembered Adams as a talented professional whose life and career had ended far too soon, while Mamelodi Sundowns paid tribute to one of the club’s brightest stars, describing him as an exceptional footballer and asking supporters and the media to respect the privacy of his loved ones during this difficult time.

In recognition of his contribution to South African football, a minute’s silence was observed before the weekend’s FIFA World Cup quarter-final matches, with players, officials, and supporters honoring the midfielder’s memory.

Adams’ passing has sent shockwaves through South African football, with teammates, fans, and football organizations remembering him not only for his performances on the pitch but also for the promise of a career that inspired a new generation of players.