CHARLOTTE, North Carolina — Soccer player Anton Walkes, who began his career with Tottenham, died Thursday at the age of 25 after an accident in Florida, his MLS club Charlotte FC said.
Charlotte said in a statement that Walkes died early Thursday morning, without giving details of the accident.
The Miami Herald reported that Walkes was involved in a collision between two boats Wednesday near Miami Marine Stadium.
Charlotte FC owner David Tepper said everyone at the club was “devastated by the tragic passing of Anton Walkes.”
“He was a tremendous son, father, partner and teammate whose joyful approach to life touched everyone he met,” Tepper said in a club statement.
“There are no words to describe the grief of everyone at Major League Soccer today after learning of the tragic passing of Charlotte FC’s Anton Walkes,” MLS said in a statement.
“Anton was a talented and dedicated player who was loved by his teammates and fans. We extend our deepest condolences to his partner, family, friends and the entire Charlotte FC family. MLS is coordinating with Charlotte FC to provide players and family the resources and support they may need during this tragic time.”
Walkes began his career with English Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur and also played for Portsmouth before signing with Atlanta United in MLS.
He joined Charlotte for the club’s debut MLS season in 2022.
He played in 23 games, 21 starts, and had five shots on goal for Charlotte FC last season.
“Anton made better people around him in all areas of life and represented Charlotte FC at the highest level both on and off the pitch,” Tepper said.
His Charlotte FC teammate Jaylin Lindsey said he was “heartbroken” to hear the news.
“Fly high my brother you are the best teammate I could have asked for,” Lindsey tweeted. “I love you man.”
And his teammate Adam Armor tweeted: “Rest easy bro.”
Totenham Hotspur also tweeted: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former player Anton Walkes. The thoughts of everyone at the Club are with his family and friends at this incredibly sad time.”
