Soccer Star Dies at 36 After Being Diagnosed with Cancer 3 Times: ‘The World Will Not Be the Same’

• English soccer star Joe Thompson died on the morning of Thursday, April 17, at the age of 36 his wife confirmed
• Thompson had been diagnosed with stage four lymphoma last April
• Thompson is survived by his wife Chantelle and their two children, Tahilula Lily and Athena Rae

Joe Thompson, a sports pundit and former Rochdale midfielder, has died. He was 36.

Thompson’s wife, Chantelle, revealed on Instagram that the soccer star died on Thursday, April 17, after being diagnosed with cancer three times.

“Our brave and courageous Joey passed away in the early hours of Thursday morning, he was at home where he wanted to be in a beautiful peaceful setting surrounded by his family when he transitioned. ✨” Chantelle wrote alongside a photograph of Thompson.

“Joe has made such an impact on so many people and we are all forever grateful for him blessing us with his presence and for being so strong and staying with us as long as he did against all the odds,” she continued. “He was the most Incredible husband, son, brother, friend & father to our beautiful daughters who will now carry his light and legacy on and I will continue to keep filling them up with Joe’s love every single day.”

Chantelle described Thompson’s cancer journey as a “long battle,” in which he lived the way he wanted while “growing closer and closer to God” and helping others. 

“He held on to his plans for the future to continue that legacy but It’s now time for him to rest up and watch over us from heaven,” she noted. “I know he will be deeply missed by everyone and the world will not be the same without his contagious energy.

“Long may his legacy and impact live on!! 🔥,” she concluded.

Thompson was diagnosed with cancer for a third time in April 2024, just five years after he retired from playing professional soccer, according to the BBC.

Having previously recovered from the disease twice, he was found to have stage four lymphoma, a type of blood cancer.

The sports star was born in Bath, England. He attended Manchester United’s Academy from the age of nine and played for several professional soccer teams, including Tranmere Rovers, Carlisle United, Southport and Bury, before finishing his career at Rochdale.

The latter said in a statement on their website that they were “devastated” to learn that Thompson had died. 

“Known by those close to Rochdale as ‘Joey T’, he made over 200 appearances for his local team, representing the badge with pride,” said the statement. “We first knew Joe primarily as a talented footballer, but we would soon grow to adore his loving, infectious personality.

“He faced every battle head-on, both on and off the pitch,” the statement continued. “His journey and indomitable spirit have been an inspiration for everyone who has been touched by his story.

“Above all of that, Joe was a loving husband to Chantelle and an incredible father to Thailula and Athena Rae. Our thoughts are with Joe’s family and friends at this incredibly sad time.”

Manchester United Academy described Thompson as “our much-loved friend and Academy alumni” alongside his obituary.

“Everyone who knew Joe thought he was a great man, whose personality lit up every room he entered despite the pain he had endured in his life,” they added. “We’ll always remember him and send our deepest condolences to his wife, Chantelle, and two daughters.”

Thompson was just 23 when he was first diagnosed with Nodular Sclerosis Hodgkin Lymphoma, a blood cancer. Having completed chemotherapy, he went into remission and returned to playing soccer full-time.

However, three years later, he required stem cell treatment after being diagnosed for a second time, per Manchester United’s obituary of him. Thompson defied expectations and once again returned to the sport before choosing to retire in 2019.

Following his playing career, Thompson worked as a media pundit, life coach, and motivational speaker, while holding an ambassadorial role with Manchester United, according to Rochdale AFC. 

He is survived by his wife Chantelle and their children Tahilula Lily and Athena Rae.