On October 9, 2024, British soccer player George Baldock, 31, was found unresponsive in his swimming pool in Glyfada, Athens. Emergency services attempted to revive him, but he had been dead for several hours. His partner in the UK raised the alarm when he didn’t answer his phone. Police ruled out foul play, and a post-mortem investigation is underway, with drowning suspected.

Baldock’s death shocked the soccer world. His family shared, “We can confirm that George has sadly passed away. As a family, we are in shock at this terrible loss.” Sheffield United called him a “Blades legend,” while Panathinaikos FC said, “We are shocked by the loss of our George.”

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.

— Premier League (@premierleague) October 10, 2024

Baldock, of Greek descent, joined Panathinaikos after Sheffield United’s relegation from the Premier League. He had previously played for MK Dons, Oxford United, and made four recent appearances for Panathinaikos, including a derby match.

Former teammates like Ben Chilwell and Dean Henderson posted heartfelt tributes, with Chilwell writing, “Rest in Peace, mate.”