In the wake of a tragic event, the fiancée of footballer George Baldock has shared an emotional tribute to her beloved partner.
Annabel Dignam took to Instagram to honor her “soulmate,” just hours after he drowned in the pool of his apartment in Greece.
Along with a touching photo of the couple, Annabel expressed her love for George, who was the father of their one-year-old son, Brody.
She revealed that George, 31, was scheduled to fly back to the UK on Thursday to celebrate his birthday with their family in Sheffield.
In her heartfelt message, she wrote, “George, the love of my life, my soulmate. You were the perfect dad to our beautiful boy. You completed me, and I know we were your world.”
She added, “My world will never be the same, but I promise I will find a way for Brody. I love you forever and always, G. Your Neen. X”
Mourning a Sudden Loss
Earlier today, George’s family also expressed their heartbreak over his sudden passing.
They remembered him as “the most special father, fiancé, son, brother, uncle, friend, teammate, and person” and highlighted the joy he brought to everyone around him.
As the investigation continues, police have reviewed CCTV footage that captures George swimming in the pool before he suddenly stopped and sank.
The footage, recorded from a neighboring property, shows him entering the water around 6:45 PM on Wednesday, just hours before his body was discovered.
The family disclosed that George was supposed to come home to celebrate his son’s first birthday.
“Your enthusiasm and infectious personality brought so much love to those who knew you, and we will cherish our memories of you,” they wrote.
They asked for privacy as they navigate this devastating time, emphasizing how impossible it was not to love him.
Circumstances of His Passing
Reports indicate that Wednesday was particularly poignant as it marked Baldock’s son’s first birthday.
Annabel, aware that he wouldn’t want to miss such an important occasion, had called the property manager to check on him when she couldn’t reach him.
Tragically, when the property manager arrived, George was found unresponsive in the pool.
Despite immediate efforts to revive him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
A post-mortem examination later confirmed that George had drowned, although toxicology results will take about a week to be completed.
He had recently played a match for Panathinaikos against rivals Olympiacos, ending in a 0-0 draw.
His last training session was on Wednesday, just before he returned to his rented apartment in the upscale suburb of Glyfada, Athens.
Honoring a Beloved Player
The football community has been quick to pay tribute to George Baldock.
Players and fans alike have expressed their sorrow over the loss of a player known for his tenacity on the field.
Both teams observed a moment of silence during a match held that evening, and Baldock’s name was displayed on a shirt by the Greek national team as a heartfelt tribute.
Baldock, affectionately known as “Furious George” by Sheffield United fans, had joined Panathinaikos this summer after a successful seven-season stint with the Blades.
Former teammates, including Harry Maguire, have shared their condolences, with Maguire simply posting “RIP” alongside a broken heart emoji.
Sheffield United released a statement expressing their shock and sadness over his passing, highlighting George’s popularity among fans, staff, and teammates.
Other clubs, including Northampton Town and MK Dons, where Baldock began his career, have also expressed their grief and condolences.
Remembering a Legacy
George Baldock was more than just a talented footballer; he was a cherished friend, a beloved family member, and a source of joy for many.
His tragic passing leaves a void that will be felt by all who knew him.
As tributes continue to pour in, it is clear that his memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him and in the beautiful legacy he leaves behind.