An English footballer who had been playing professionally in US Major League Soccer has died after a boat crash in Miami on Wednesday. ”
Charlotte FC’s Anton Walkes, a former academy player with Tottenham Hotspur, had been left in critical condition after two boats crashed near Miami Marine Stadium.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said on Wednesday that he was found unconscious and received CPR from Miami Fire Rescue.
However, his club has now announced in social media messages that the 25-year-old from Lewisham, south London, has died.
Charlotte’s sporting director Zoran Krneta said in a statement: “We are heartbroken from the loss of Anton Walkes, a truly incredible father, loving person, and outstanding human being. Anton embodied what it means to be a part of Charlotte Football Club and our entire community is grieving over this tragedy.
“The impact he made in the locker room and throughout Charlotte will never be forgotten. We are thinking of his lovely family during this time and will support them fully in every way imaginable.”
Walkes had been a professional since 2016. He had spent several years with Spurs’ youth ranks prior to spells at Portsmouth and Atlanta United. He was signed by Charlotte in a player draft in December 2021 and had started 21 games last season.
Major League Soccer added in a statement: “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.”
