South African soccer is in shock following the death of 25-year-old midfielder Jaden Adams!

Details surrounding Adams’ death remain unclear at this time, though the player’s representatives and family have confirmed the tragic news. Further details regarding the cause of his death will be released in the coming days.

He was one of the greatest talents to emerge from the country’s soccer scene in recent years, which led to his rapid rise and eventual selection for the national team, with which he played in all three group-stage matches of the World Cup.

“Right now, things are still tough, you understand. The family doesn’t want anyone to contact them at this time; they wouldn’t be able to respond to anyone. This death has devastated them all; they had just returned from the World Cup and then received this news. I had a heart-to-heart conversation with him on Thursday; he was really optimistic about his return and about being able to play in the World Cup.

So, right now, I don’t even have the words to say, but we ask that the family’s privacy be respected. Yes, I can tell you that he has passed away. “No one saw this coming,” said the player’s spokesperson, Brentin Johnson.

*photo source: AP