The British soccer player, 31, was tragically discovered dead in his home in Glyfada, Athens, late Wednesday evening.
On October 9, 2024, George Baldock, a defender for Panathinaikos and a former Premier League player, was found unresponsive in his swimming pool, according to local police. Emergency services attempted to revive him, but their efforts were unsuccessful. The exact cause of death has yet to be confirmed, but a forensic investigation is underway.
Baldock’s passing has shocked the soccer (known outside the US as football) community, as the talented player had recently moved to Greece and was known for his contributions to both club and country. His death has left many grappling with the sudden and unexpected loss.
The discovery occurred at Baldock’s home in a suburb of southern Athens, around 10 p.m. local time (1900 GMT). Police performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation, but sadly, Baldock had already been dead for several hours, according to official reports.
His family corroborated the soccer star’s passing with a brief but emotional statement. They said, “We can confirm that George has sadly passed away. As a family, we are in shock at this terrible loss.”
Authorities are still awaiting the results of a post-mortem examination, though it has been reported that drowning was the likely cause of death. Toxicology tests are also being conducted, and the results will take several days. However, Greek police have ruled out foul play as there were no signs of a break-in or other suspicious activity at Baldock’s residence.
The soccer star, of Greek ancestry, joined Panathinaikos in May, shortly after Sheffield United’s relegation from the Premier League. Before his move to Greece, he spent seven years at Bramall Lane with Sheffield United, where he became a well-respected figure among teammates.
During his career, he also played for MK Dons and Oxford United. Though he had only recently made four appearances for Panathinaikos, his impact on the club was notable, having just played in a 0-0 derby against Olympiakos over the weekend.
Tributes from the soccer world began pouring in after the news broke. Sheffield United released a statement expressing their grief and disbelief. They emphasized his popularity among fans, staff, and teammates during his seven years at Bramall Lane. The club offered their deepest condolences to Baldock’s family and friends.
The Panathinaikos FC wrote its own statement, “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.”
Baldock’s sudden passing also prompted tributes from former teammates and fellow athletes. Ben Chilwell shared his sorrow on Instagram. He reminisced about their shared experiences, from their youth to their professional careers. In the end, he wrote, “Rest in Peace, mate.”
Ben Chilwell’s tribute to George Baldock, dated October 10, 2024 | Source: Instagram/benchilwell
Dean Henderson, another former teammate, referred to Baldock as a “Blades legend” in his own social media tribute. Meanwhile, the Premier League posted a statement expressing their condolences.
They wrote, “The Premier League is deeply saddened by the passing of former Sheffield United defender George Baldock. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this incredibly sad time.”
The Greek National Football Team and the Hellenic Football Federation joined in the mourning, adding, “With deep sympathy and pain, the National Team and the Hellenic Football Federation bid farewell to George Baldock. There are no words to describe the human pain caused by the news of the unexpected loss of one of our own. Condolences to his family. Goodbye.”
In their statement, MK Dons expressed deep sadness at this loss, especially because Baldock began his career with their youth program and played his first professional match with the club. They offered condolences to his family and affirmed that he would always be remembered as one of their own.
As the soccer world continues to reflect on the life and career of Baldock, his final Instagram post has gained particular attention. “☘️✍🏼 New beginnings…” were his last words.
In August, another soccer player, Juan Izquierdo, passed away at 27. Too many athletes have been lost this year. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.
