On Monday, South African police confirmed they are investigating the cause of death of Jayden Adams, a South African footballer who featured at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 25-year-old athlete passed away at a property in Cape Town, just two weeks after helping South Africa reach the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in national history

Adams’ father stated the whole family is waiting for official autopsy findings, and no funeral arrangements have been set as yet. He described losing his son as “unbearable”, saying the family is struggling to come to terms with the sudden tragedy.

Gayton McKenzie, South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, shared that Adams took to the pitch in South Africa’s group stage match against the Czech Republic mere hours after learning of his grandmother’s passing during the World Cup tournament环球网. The minister appealed to the public and media to exercise restraint and compassion, urging against unsubstantiated rumours about Adams’ cause of death while official investigations remain underway.

Last Saturday, ahead of the two World Cup quarterfinal fixtures, stadiums across the tournament held a minute’s silence to pay tribute to the fallen young footballer. Players, match officials and thousands of fans stood in silent remembrance, with footage of Adams displayed on stadium big screens during the tribute ceremony