Anton Walkes Dead; How Much Was The Charlotte FC Defender Worth?

Charlotte Football Club's Major League Soccer (MLS) defender Anton Walkes has died at the age of 25 after sustaining injuries in a boat crash off the coast of Miami.

His death was confirmed by the club and MLS on their respective Twitter pages.

The deadly crash that killed Walkes occurred at the Miami Marine Stadium basin. He was operating one of the two boats that collided, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission told AP News.

The young soccer star, who was found unconscious after authorities responded to the site, was given CPR by the Miami Fire Rescue personnel and was rushed to a hospital where he was declared dead.

Originally from London, Walkes began his professional soccer career by joining Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur in July 2013 and remained a member until he was loaned out to Atlanta United in 2017 and then to League One club Portsmouth. Walkes made his first team debut with Portsmouth in an EFL 2019 match against Gillingham where they emerged victorious. Walkes was signed back by Atlanta United in January 2020. He joined Charlotte FC in 2022 and played a total of 23 matches for them.

Charlotte FC owner David Tepper said his fellow club members were "devastated by the tragic passing of Anton Walkes."

"Everyone at Tepper Sports & Entertainment is devastated by the tragic passing of Anton Walkes," Tepper wrote in a statement.

"He was a tremendous son, father, partner and teammate whose joyous approach to life touched everyone he met. Anton made those around him better in all areas of life and represented Charlotte FC to the highest standard both on and off the pitch. He will greatly be missed by many and our thoughts and prayers are with Anton's family during this heartbreaking time. The Club offers its full support to all those impacted during this period of mourning," Tepper added.

"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," MLS noted in a tweet. "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."

The defender and midfielder, who is also known for his charitable works, had a net worth of $5 million at the time of his death, Genius Celebs reported.

The devastating news of Walkes' death caused an influx of tributes on social media platforms.

"I'm devastated by the news that Anton Walkes has passed away," journalist Sam Spencer wrote as he shared an old interview video of the soccer star answering a question about LGBTQ Pride. "Like many members of the@CharlotteFC squad, he was always kind, and a supporter of diversity and respect for all."

Mayor Vi Lytes of the city of Charlotte also posted a tribute to Walkes, noting, "To all of our @CharlotteFC community, today we mourn the loss of a talented young man, Anton Walkes. My deepest condolences to his family, friends and teammates. Rest in peace, Anton."

LaWana Mayfield, an at-large member of the Charlotte City Council, wrote, "Sending condolences to the family 🙏🏾🙏🏾Charlotte FC player Anton Walkes passes away at age. 25."

Meanwhile, floral tributes were left by fans at the east gate of Charlotte's Bank of America Stadium Thursday. A vigil is also set to be held at the same venue at 4 p.m. that same day.