George Baldock's Heartbreaking Last Days in Athens Before Son's Birthday
- George Baldock communicated his distress to team-mates about missing his son's birthday just hours before his death.
- He had moved to Greece to play for Panathinaikos after a seven-year stint with Sheffield United.
- Baldock was tragically found drowned in his pool on October 9, 2023, leading to an outpouring of grief from former colleagues.
George Baldock, a former professional footballer, was found dead in his pool in Athens, Greece, on October 9, 2023. He had recently moved to Greece to join Panathinaikos after a successful seven-year career at Sheffield United. On the day of his death, just hours before he tragically drowned, Baldock voiced his heartbreak to friends and teammates about missing his son's birthday, expressing a strong desire to return home immediately. This incident occurred after he reported to training for recovery from an injury sustained a few days prior during a match against Olympiacos. Baldock's fiancée, Annabel, grew concerned when she was unable to reach him and contacted the landlord of the property he was renting. Upon arrival, the landlord discovered Baldock unresponsive in his pool, with medical personnel later confirming the cause of death as drowning. This news stunned former teammates, who expressed disbelief and sadness, prompting several attempts to contact Baldock in hopes of dispelling the rumors surrounding his death. The response to the tragedy highlighted the deep bonds within the football community, as many players grieved the loss of a colleague and friend. Understandably, news of his untimely passing reverberated through the sporting world, coming as a shock to many who admired his dedication and talent on the field. As tributes poured in, former teammates reflected on their memories with Baldock, showcasing the impact he had not only as a player but as a person. The affection and respect his peers held for him became evident during this profoundly difficult time.