Media: South African footballer reportedly dies by suicide UPDATED

South African footballer Jayden Adams, who died at the age of 25 weeks after representing his country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, reportedly died by suicide, according to Sunday World. 

The midfielder, who played for Mamelodi Sundowns, was found dead at his home in Stellenbosch on the morning of |July 11, with the Sunday World reporting that he allegedly took his own life. The circumstances surrounding his death have not been officially confirmed.

Two weeks earlier, he had been mourning the death of his 72-year-old grandmother, Marianna Adams, a day before South Africa's match against the Czech Republic in Atlanta.

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South African footballer Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25, weeks after representing his country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The midfielder, who played for Mamelodi Sundowns, started South Africa's first two matches at the tournament and featured in all three group-stage games. He did not play in the team's 1-0 defeat to Canada in the round of 32, foreign media reports.

The cause of Adams' death has not been disclosed.

Adams joined Mamelodi Sundowns in 2025 and made 27 appearances for the club, scoring four goals. During the 2025/26 season, he helped the team win the African Champions League.

Before joining Sundowns, Adams spent five years with Stellenbosch FC.

At international level, Adams earned nine caps for South Africa and scored one goal during his senior career.

By Sabina Mammadli