South African World Cup footballer Jayden Adams found dead at 25, police launch investigation

The Guardian Nigeria—South African soccer player Jayden Adams, who competed at the 2026 World Cup, was found dead at the age of 25, triggering a police investigation into the circumstances of his death. Adams had been a key figure for the South African national team during the tournament. Police have not publicly declared a cause of death or indicated whether foul play is suspected. His death shocked the South African football community during an otherwise celebratory World Cup period for the nation.

• The Guardian Nigeria — Adams, 25, had played for South Africa at the 2026 World Cup before his death
• The Independent (UK) — Police launch investigation after South Africa World Cup star Jayden Adams found dead
• Radio Prague Intl — Czechia's World Cup hopes suffer setback after South Africa draw
• Washington Post — Police launched a formal investigation into Adams's death and have not ruled out any cause