Mamelodi Sundowns and South Africa national team central midfielder Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25, according to Soccer Laduma.
His coach Brandin Johnson announced the death of the player without revealing the cause of death.
"I spoke to him on Thursday and he was full of positivity. He was ready to move forward, realizing what was waiting for him, becoming the CAF champion. He wasted no time trying to be home with his family. I have no words, but we ask you to respect the family's private life," Johnson said.
Other media reported that Adams committed suicide. The player was suffering from severe depression.
Adams played in the World Cup against Mexico, Czech Republic and South Korea, but did not score. In the 1/8 final match, Adams remained on the bench when his team lost 0-1 to Canada. South Africa's only goal was scored in the added time of the second half. South Africa qualified for the play-offs of the 2026 World Cup for the first time in its history.
