George Baldock’s family pay tribute to ‘most special person’ as cause of death confirmed

Police have confirmed the cause of death of a 31-year-old international star as the football world mourns his tragic passing.

GEORGE Baldock's heartbroken family have paid tribute to the "most special person" after the footballer's cause of death has been confirmed.

George Baldock’s heartbroken family have paid tribute to the “most special person” after the footballer’s cause of death has been confirmed.

The defensive ace, 31, was found dead at home in Athens on Wednesday night with his family left in the dark over how the star died, The Sun reports.

George Baldock’s family have released a touching statement saying: “We are heartbroken with the sudden passing of our beloved George.

“You were the most special father, fiance, son, brother, uncle, friend, teammate 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.”

Greece defender George Baldock holding the ball during the Super League Greece football match against Olympiacos in Athens. (Photo by Eurokinissi / AFP)

The family also confirmed his cause of death as drowning in his swimming pool at his home.

Investigations into Baldock’s shock death revealed the ex-Sheffield United player died in the pool.

A large amount of water was found in Baldock’s lungs leading police to believe he drowned.

Initial autopsy results confirmed the likely cause of death as “microscopically foamy microbubbles” had formed on the footballer - an indication of drowning.

Forensic scientists who conducted the autopsy on Baldock at Athens’ University Hospital today say he was dead for five hours before he was discovered.

The family’s touching statement ended with them saying: “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. We ask that you please continue to respect our privacy at this devastating time as we begin to process our grief.”

Police said it would be “ several weeks, if not months” before the full autopsy and toxicology results were released.

Baldock was found dead in his pool.

A half-empty bottle of vodka and two glasses were found next to the pool - with police initially investigating whether another person was present at the time.

Officials have since ruled out any criminality was at play in his death.

According to Greek media, Baldock’s fiance - who lives in England - was trying to contact the former Sheffield United star and had began to worry.

After failing to track him down, she then told the owner of the house in Glyfada to check the property.

The fullback, who joined Athens side Panathinaikos from Sheffield United this summer, was found at the bottom of the pool by his landlord who jumped over the fence to get into the home.

The Greece international, who was born in Buckingham but qualifies for the team via his grandmother, was found wearing swimming trunks and was pulled out of the water by emergency services.

They tried to resuscitate him but sadly could not revive him.

Tributes are laid for ex-Sheffield United player George Baldock on October 10, 2024 in Sheffield, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

The players of Greece pose for a team photo while holding a shirt which reads 'Baldock 2'. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

The emergency service (EKAV) doctor deemed that Baldock’s death had occurred at least an hour before he was found by the landlord.

Tributes flowed to Baldock following the news of his death.

Panathinaikos said: “We are shocked, we are shocked by the loss of our George.

“The family of Panathinaikos mourns his untimely death. We stand with the family and loved ones of George Baldock.”

Former side Sheffield United also paid tribute.

They said: “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 teammates who pulled on a red and white shirt alongside him.

“The sincere condolences of everyone associated with Sheffield United are extended to George’s family and friends.”

- This article first appeared in The Sun and was republished with permission

Originally published as George Baldock’s family pay tribute to ‘most special person’ as cause of death confirmed