ATHENS, Greece — George Baldock, a 31-year-old English soccer star who played for the Greek club Panathinaikos and the Greek national team, has tragically died.
Baldock’s body was discovered in a swimming pool at his home in Glyfada, a suburb of Athens, on Wednesday, October 9, 2024. night.
Local authorities confirmed that no foul play is suspected.
According to the BBC, an initial coroner’s report suggested Baldock drowned.
His body was found at approximately 10:30 p.m. local time, and police attempted cardiopulmonary resuscitation, but he could not be revived.
Baldock’s family released a statement expressing their devastation: “We can confirm that George has sadly passed away. As a family, we are in shock at this terrible loss.”
A Rising Star in Greek Soccer
Baldock, who was born in England but also held Greek nationality through his ancestry, had recently signed with Panathinaikos in May after spending seven years at Sheffield United in England.
He had quickly become a key player for Panathinaikos and had earned 12 caps for the Greek national team since his debut in 2022.
Panathinaikos paid tribute to Baldock on social media, writing in Greek, “We are shocked, we are shocked by the loss of our George. Panathinaikos’ family mourns his unexpected loss. We stand with the family and relatives of George Baldock.”
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Tributes From His Former Clubs
Sheffield United, where Baldock played as a defender for seven seasons, also shared their sorrow on social media: “Sheffield United Football Club is shocked and extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player, George Baldock. The sincere condolences of everyone associated with Sheffield United are extended to George’s family and friends.”
Sheffield United Football Club is shocked and extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player, George Baldock.
The defender left the club in the summer after seven years at Bramall Lane and was extremely popular with supporters, staff and team-mates who pulled on a… pic.twitter.com/OlDsn0lFpB
— Sheffield United (@SheffieldUnited) October 9, 2024
Baldock’s move to Panathinaikos marked a new chapter in his career, and his last post on Instagram featured a video of him signing with the Greek club, captioned, “New beginnings.”
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The soccer world is mourning the loss of a player known for his dedication on and off the pitch.
Baldock leaves behind a legacy of perseverance and sportsmanship, which touched fans and teammates alike in both England and Greece.
