Soccer star Megan Rapinoe mourned the tragic death of MLS star Anton Walkes. The former Tottenham and Portsmouth defender died in a boat accident.
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As announced by his club, Charlotte FC, the player died in a crash between two boats. The player was found unconscious and was rushed to the hospital, however, the doctors declared him dead.
As investigations continue into the horrifying accident, there are no casualties except for Anton. The club was training in Florida to begin their pre-season training, where they got to know about the incident.
Megan Rapinoe mourns MLS star
It was a sad day in soccer after the sudden death of Anton Walkes. The whole soccer world joined USWNT star Rapinoe in grieving the defender. Hence, the two-time World Cup winner paid her respects to her family and offered her condolences.
She shared a picture of Walkes on her Instagram story. Furthermore, she wrote, “Love to his entire family and surrounding loved ones.”
The club also mourned their player, “We are deeply saddened to share that Anton Walkes has tragically passed away this morning,” the club said, “May he rest in peace.”
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
The owner, David Tepper, was also saddened by his passing and is devastated by the outcome. “He was a tremendous son, father, partner, and teammate whose joyous approach to life touched everyone he met.”
After spending a year at Atlanta FC, Watkins moved to the crowns, where he played 23 matches in his debut season. “Anton made those around him better people in all areas of life and represented Charlotte FC to the highest standard both on and off the pitch,” continued Tepper.
Soccer world will miss Walkes
After coming through the ranks of Tottenham, Walkes joined Atalanta. He was a part of the Spurs academy since 2013. But later made several forthcomings between his childhood club and League one side Portsmouth, where he endured several loan spells along with Atalanta FC. The England-born defender made 218 appearances and bagged 11 goals and 4 assists in all competitions.
His teenage club Tottenham 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.”
Moreover, his former club Portsmouth and Atalanta also paid their homage to their former player.
Forever with us.
Rest easy, Anton. pic.twitter.com/V3XMNYQGyj
— Charlotte FC (@CharlotteFC) January 20, 2023
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Major League Soccer also weighed in on the difficult situation. “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.”
Charlotte FC’s right-back and teammate of Anton, Jaylin Lindsey was also shocked to hear the disappointing news. “Fly high my brother, you’re the best teammate I could’ve asked for,” he tweeted. “Love you man.”
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Soccer has definitely lost a true gem. The world will surely miss the young defender. Rest in peace, Anton.
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