South African international Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25, two weeks after playing at the World Cup, international media report.

The Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder started the tournament opener, a 2-0 defeat by Mexico, and the 1-1 draw with Czechia, being substituted in both matches. He then came off the bench in the 1-0 win against South Korea, but took no part in the 1-0 last-32 defeat by Canada. 

A former Stellenbosch FC standout, Adams earned nine caps for Bafana Bafana and was a member of the squad that secured bronze at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations.

While the circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, officials from his former club, Stellenbosch, confirmed the news.

During the World Cup, Adams had been grieving the loss of his 72-year-old grandmother, Marianna, who passed away on June 17, just one day before South Africa's match against Czechia.

The South African Football Players Union wrote in a statement: "The SAFPU is devastated by the untimely passing of Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder Jayden Adams.

"Jayden had only recently represented South Africa at the 2026 World Cup, carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage, and distinction. His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family, teammates, clubs, the football fraternity and country at large. We extend our deepest condolences to the Adams family, Mamelodi Sundowns, Stellenbosch FC, Bafana Bafana and all those whose lives he touched."