Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Dr Patrice Motsepe has expressed deep sorrow over the death of South Africa international and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams.

In a condolence message released on Saturday, Motsepe described the 25-year-old as a talented footballer who represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and helped Mamelodi Sundowns win the 2026 TotalEnergies CAF Champions League in Rabat.

On behalf of CAF and its 54 member associations, Motsepe extended his condolences to the South African Football Association (SAFA), its president Dr Danny Jordaan, Mamelodi Sundowns, and Adams’ family.

“On behalf of CAF and its 54 Member Associations, Dr Motsepe conveys his heartfelt condolences to the South African Football Association (SAFA), its President, Dr Danny Jordaan, Mamelodi Sundowns Football Club and the family of Jayden Adams,” the statement read.

Before joining Mamelodi Sundowns in January 2025, Adams played for Stellenbosch FC and had established himself as a regular member of the Bafana Bafana squad.

Adams featured in all three of South Africa’s group-stage matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, helping the team reach the knockout stage for the first time before they were eliminated by co-hosts Canada in the Round of 32. He also played a key role in South Africa’s run to the semi-finals of the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations.

The midfielder made his senior international debut in 2022 and enjoyed a successful club career, winning both the South African Premiership title and the CAF Champions League with Mamelodi Sundowns.

South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, announced Adams’ death on Saturday, describing it as a major loss to the country’s football community. Authorities have yet to confirm the cause of death, with police saying investigations are ongoing.

Concluding his tribute, Motsepe said: “May Jayden Adams’ soul rest in peace.”