Anton Walkes, a defender for Major League Soccer team Charlotte FC, has died aged 25, the team announced in a statement.
“Charlotte Football Club can confirm the tragic and heartbreaking news that defender Anton Walkes passed away early Thursday morning following an accident in South Florida,” the statement read.
Charlotte FC owner David Tepper described Walkes as a “tremendous son, father, partner and teammate whose joyous approach to life touched everyone he met.
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
“He will be greatly missed by many, and our thoughts and prayers are with Anton’s family during this heartbreaking time,” Tepper added. “The Club offers its full support to all those impacted during this period of mourning.”
“There are no words to describe the sorrow of everyone in Major League Soccer today after learning of the tragic passing of Anton Walkes of Charlotte FC. 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 members with the resources and support they may need during this tragic time.” Major League Soccer said the following the club statement.
Walkes came through the youth ranks of Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur, before going on to play for Portsmouth and Atlanta United.
He played in 93 MLS games, also spending three seasons (2017, 2020-21) at Atlanta United. Charlotte selected Walkes in the 2021 MLS Expansion Draft, incorporating the center back into their debut campaign.
