Giannis Antetokounmpo withdrew from the 2023 FIBA World Cup and ended his injury treatment
Giannis Antetokounmpo, the owner of 2 consecutive MVP titles, has announced his decision not to play for the Greek team to attend the upcoming FIBA World Cup.
"Greek Freak" shared on personal social networks: "After many discussions with medical staff, I realized that I am not ready to compete at the level needed to participate in this tournament."
"This is my only option at the moment to ensure that I can continue to play at the highest level. I am extremely disappointed with the result but this is my decision and the medical team's decision. economy," added the Milwaukee Bucks star.
The Greek national team anticipated this situation after Giannis missed the team's rally and several recent friendlies.
However, the coaching staff and the team still hope that Giannis can soon recover from his injury and return to playing.
The home club Milwaukee Bucks announced last month that Antetokounmpo had undergone surgery on his left knee.
"The Deer Herd" did not provide the exact time when Giannis Antetokounmpo had the surgery. But the superstar said he was trying to find a way to be ready to compete in the World Cup.
“Everybody knows my passion and love for the National Team has and will never change. Since the NBA season ended, I have tried my best to be able to contribute my ability to the home team, reaping the glory," Giannis said.
The goal that many teams at the 2023 FIBA World Cup are pursuing, in addition to medals, is a place to attend next year's Olympics in Paris.
A total of seven Olympic slots will be awarded based on World Cup performance. The eighth place automatically belongs to the host country, France. The remaining four positions will be determined by next summer's qualifying tournaments.
Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Greek team have yet to have the opportunity to attend the Olympics as they have failed to qualify in recent years.
Antetokounmpo added: “I will continue to push myself to be ready for the next one. The ultimate goal for me personally and as a team as a whole is to qualify for the 2024 Olympics and it is an honor to do so. to represent my National Team next year."
The unfavorable situation in terms of forces of the Greek team will be an advantage for the US team when they are located with Greece. In the past, the country from the Mediterranean region made Americans regret with a "salt" defeat in the semi-finals of the FIBA World Cup 2006.
