One of the game’s biggest stars is skipping the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023.
Giannis Antetokounmpo has announced that he won’t be participating in the upcoming global basketball tournament, citing that he’s “not yet prepared to compete.”
“Everyone knows of my passion and love for my National Team, and that passion has never wavered,” wrote the two-time NBA MVP in an X post on Friday.
“Since the conclusion of my NBA season, I have been pushing my body to its limits to become the player I need to be in order to help our team achieve our goals. However, after months of effort and multiple consultations with medical staff, it is evident that I am not adequately prepared to compete at the level required for participation in the World Cup,” he continued.
Antetokounmpo’s status for the August 25-September 10 event became uncertain after he reportedly underwent surgery on his left knee last June.
As a part of Greece’s extensive 22-man pool, the 28-year-old forward managed to participate in team practices but did not play in any of their tune-up games.
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With this decision, Antetokounmpo joins the ranks of prominent names to miss the 2023 World Cup, alongside fellow NBA MVPs Nikola Jokic and Joel Embiid, as well as Domantas Sabonis, Victor Wembanyama, and 2019 World MVP Ricky Rubio.
Antetokounmpo expressed his deep disappointment but pledged his commitment to Greece as they strive to secure a spot in the 2024 Paris Olympics.
“This was not a choice, but rather the only course of action to ensure I can return to the level of basketball I have diligently worked to attain throughout my career,” he stated. “I am profoundly disheartened by this outcome, but it was a decision reached in consultation with the medical staff.
“I will persist in my efforts to be prepared for the next opportunity I receive. Both my personal objective and our ultimate team aspiration are centered on qualifying for the 2024 Olympic Games, and it will be a privilege to represent my National Team in the coming year,” he added.
Greece is placed in Group C in Manila, alongside the United States, Jordan, and New Zealand.
Their World Cup journey will commence with a match against Jordan on August 26.
