The football community was plunged into mourning following the tragic death of George Baldock, a 31-year-old former Sheffield United right-back. Baldock, who was residing in Athens, Greece, was found dead after drowning in his swimming pool at his home in Glyfada. Greek police confirmed that there was no evidence of criminal activity in connection with the death of the Greece international. The news came as a shock, reverberating across the footballing world, affecting both current and former teammates at club and international levels.
Pellistri, who, like Baldock, signed for Panathinaikos during the summer transfer window, expressed his sorrow by saying, “Our George, our teammate, our friend was and still remains family. When a member is suddenly taken away from us, a part is missing and will always be missed. In times like these, words lose their meaning. Nothing can be said to describe our grief and pain for the loss of our brother. Farewell our beloved George.”
Baldock’s fiancé, Annabel Dignam, shared her grief on Instagram by writing,
“George, the love of my life, my soulmate. The perfect Dad to our beautiful boy. You were my world and I know we were yours. You are here with me in Brody’s smile, giggle, and infectious personality. My world will never be the same but I will find a way for Brody. I promise. I love you forever and always G. Your Neen. X.”
Baldock’s family issued a statement that read:
“We are heartbroken with the sudden passing of our beloved George. We can confirm that a post-mortem examination has found that George tragically drowned whilst swimming in the pool at his home in Glyfada, Athens. George, you were the most special father, fiancé, son, brother, uncle, friend, team-mate, and person. Your enthusiasm and infectious personality brought so much love to those that were fortunate enough to know you and those that adored you from the stands. We will forever cherish the special memories we have of you and you will continue to live on in your beautiful son. You were due to fly home today for us to celebrate his first birthday together, but instead, we mourn your loss.”
The family also noted,
“As a family it has been incredibly touching, but equally so very difficult to read the huge number of tributes written by those that knew George and from those whose life he touched. It was impossible not to love him.”
