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George Baldock was just 31 years old when the famed footballer was found dead, and golfer Matt Fitzpatrick was among the many across the sporting landscape who reacted to his death.
The Greek football star's death prompted Fitzpatrick to write on his X page:
"This is so so sad! Completely shocked by this. An incredible player for the club and even better person."
Fitzpatrick said that Baldock was a good person. The golfer is from England, the team that Baldock was set to face tonight as clubs take a break for international play across the sport.
Fitzpatrick is a self-proclaimed fan of the English team Sheffield United according to his X bio. That is one of the teams Baldock played for during his playing career. He spent the last several seasons with the club.
Fitzpatrick's most recent outing in golf was a DNF in the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship. He was eight under at the time, and Tyrrell Hatton ended up shooting -24 for a tight win over Nicolas Colsaerts. Fitzpatrick will likely be back in action next weekend at the Andalucia Masters.
George Baldock's family, clubs mourn loss
After the shocking and tragic death of George Baldock, his family could do nothing but confirm the unfortunate news. Via Mirror, they provided a statement saying they confirmed that Baldock "has sadly passed away." They also said they are "in shock at this terrible loss" and asked the media to respect their privacy during this time.
His most recent club Panathinaikos, released a statement saying they were "shocked" by the loss of Baldock. They called his death "untimely" and said the club stands with the family and loved ones of the former player.
Sheffield United, another team Baldock played for, mourned the loss via Mirror:
Sheffield United Football Club is shocked and extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player, George Baldock. The defender left the club in the summer after seven years at Bramall Lane and was extremely popular with supporters, staff, and team-mates who pulled on a red and white shirt alongside him."
Northampton also put out a statement after the footballer's death:
"We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former loanee George Baldock at the tragically young age of 31. George made 5 appearances in 2011 on loan from MK Dons before playing for Oxford and Sheff Utd. Sending our sincerest condolences to George’s family and friends."
Baldock had not been heard of for a long time before his wife grew concerned and emergency services found him floating in his pool. The player had been called up to the Greek national team to face England tonight at Wembley Stadium.
