The sudden demise of 25-year-old South African midfielder Jayden Adams was announced on Saturday, only a few weeks after his appearance at the World Cup tournament.

Jayden Adams, who represented South Africa in the first two matches of the competition against Mexico and Czechia, tragically passed away at the age of 25. Less than a day before the news broke, Adams had shared a photo with his girlfriend on Instagram.

South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, confirmed his death in an official statement released on Saturday.

“It is with profound shock and a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing of Jayden Adams, midfielder for Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana, at the age of 25,” McKenzie posted on X.

He added, “South African football has lost one of its brightest young talents, and our nation mourns alongside his family, teammates, and the millions of supporters.”

Adams played a crucial role in helping South Africa reach the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in history.

No further information has been released regarding the circumstances of his death.

McKenzie also requested that the public and media refrain from speculation, stating, “The cause of Jayden’s passing has not yet been confirmed. I wish to appeal to members of the media and the public to exercise restraint and compassion, and to refrain from speculation.”

Adams began South Africa’s first Group A match against Czechia but was substituted at halftime. According to McKenzie, Adams took to the field just hours after receiving news of his grandmother’s death.

Before joining Mamelodi Sundowns last year, Adams played for several seasons with Stellenbosch. He was instrumental in helping Sundowns secure the CAF (African) Champions League title earlier this year.