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Tragedy struck in the world of Major League Soccer on Thursday with the death of 25-year-old Anton Walkes.
Walkes, an England native, was a defender for Charlotte FC in 2022 after spending the previous two seasons with Atlanta United.
According to ESPN, Walkes died due to injuries sustained in a boating accident.
Charlotte FC defender Anton Walkes died early Thursday from injuries he sustained in a boat crash off the coast of Miami. He was 25.
Walkes was found unconscious and taken to a hospital after the crash between two boats Wednesday near the Miami Marine Stadium basin, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Walkes was operating one of the boats that crashed, the state agency said in a statement.
It was unclear whether anyone else was injured. The agency’s investigation is ongoing.
Charlotte FC released a statement on Twitter confirming his death as well.
We are deeply saddened to share that Anton Walkes has tragically passed away this morning.
May he rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/8oUcHvWW6g
— Charlotte FC (@CharlotteFC) January 19, 2023
We are deeply saddened to share that Anton Walkes has tragically passed away this morning. May he rest in peace,” the tweet read.
Team owner David Tepper, who also owns the NFL’s Carolina Panthers, issued his condolences as well.
— Charlotte FC (@CharlotteFC) January 19, 2023
“He was a tremendous son, father, partner and teammate whose joyous approach to life touched everyone he met,” Tepper said.
But those were far from the only tributes to quickly come pouring in. Friends and fellow players shared statements or support and stories about Walkes.
Rest in peace brother, forever in our hearts 💔🕊️ https://t.co/E7QUsjDZ8f
— Karol Świderski (@Swiderski97) January 19, 2023
Heartbroken💔. Fly high my brother, you’re the best teammate I could’ve asked for. Love you man😭❤️ https://t.co/d451s6gitt
— Jaylin Lindsey (@JaylinLindsey) January 19, 2023
Former teams Portsmouth FC and Tottenham Hotspur also sent messages of condolences.
Everyone at Portsmouth Football Club is extremely saddened to learn of the passing of Anton Walkes.
Our thoughts are with his friends and family at this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/bWZIz324z4
— Portsmouth FC (@Pompey) January 19, 2023
Tottenham players will wear a black armband for Thursday’s match against Manchester City to commemorate Walkes.
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former player, Anton Walkes.
As a mark of respect, our first team will wear black armbands at this evening’s Premier League match against Manchester City, with all our Academy sides to wear black armbands this weekend.
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) January 19, 2023
The tributes continued from all corners of the soccer world.
Fly high, @AntonWalkes 🕊️💙 pic.twitter.com/xTu5gAtD3d
— Brittany Alvarado (@bavacado2) January 19, 2023
I remember I interviewed Anton Walkes at Atlanta once when he had just arrived and he was just so funny and delightful!! This is so sad.
Boating dangers are really underrated. I almost never get on them 🙁
— Arielle Castillo (@ariellec) January 19, 2023
I’m shocked by the passing of Anton Walkes. I will always cherish the moments we lived together. Thank you for making me grow. All my thoughts are with his family, friends and loved ones. Rest in peace, Anton pic.twitter.com/NG1bZEWSCB
— Miguel Ángel Ramírez (@MARamirezMedina) January 19, 2023
To all of our @CharlotteFC community, today we mourn the loss of a talented young man, Anton Walkes. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, and teammates. Rest in peace, Anton.
— Mayor Vi Lyles (@CLTMayor) January 19, 2023