FIFA President Pays Tribute to Jayden Adams After Soccer Star’s Death at 25

FIFA President Gianni Infantino paid tribute to South African soccer player Jayden Adams, who died at age 25. Infantino expressed his condolences, stating, "It's so incredibly sad to hear that South Africa midfielder Jayden Adams has passed away just weeks after featuring in his nation's historic World Cup campaign." The South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) confirmed Adams' death, describing it as "an immeasurable loss" and noting he had recently represented South Africa at the World Cup with "pride, courage and distinction." Adams' club, Mamelodi Sundowns, remembered him as a "highly talented" team member. Adams played in South Africa's World Cup matches against Mexico and the Czech Republic, and appeared as a substitute against South Korea. In his honor, a moment of silence was observed before the World Cup quarterfinal match between England and Norway. Adams' longtime partner, Aqueelah Adendorf, also broke her silence with a memorial message following his death.