Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetekounmpo will not see action for his native Greece in the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, to be held from August 25 to September 10, primarily in the Philippines, with some games in Indonesia and Japan.
The 28-year-old announced the news in a tweet, saying he came up with the decision after multiple meetings with medical staff.
"This was not a choice but my only option in ensuring I get back to the level of basketball I have worked so hard to achieve so far in my career," the two-time MVP said.
Antentoukounmpo recently underwent a clean-up procedure on his left knee more than a month ago after feeling lingering discomfort since the start of the offseason.
The 2021 NBA Finals MVP vowed to be ready to represent Greece next year for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
Dallas Mavericks superstar Luka Doncic of Slovenia remains the only premier NBA player left to play in the international tournament.
Several superstars have also backed out playing from the event, including Nikola Jokic of Serbia, Joel Embiid and Victor Wembanyama of France, Rui Hachimura of Japan, and most of the best American players for Team USA.
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Fans react to Antentokounmpo's World Cup absence
Despite being disappointed for Giannis for being unable to represent Greece, Bucks fan @Snell SZN is glad his team's main man can get some rest.
Parody account @HubieTalksHoops poked fun at Antetokounmpo's statement after being eliminated last postseason.
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