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.
Everyone knows my passion and love for my National Team has and never will change. Since the conclusion of my NBA season I have been pushing my body to the limits to be the player I need to be to help our team achieve the goals we set.
— Giannis Antetokounmpo (@Giannis_An34) August 11, 2023
But after months of work and multiple… pic.twitter.com/1uhTlfNZVE
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.
It sucks for Giannis and Greek fans that he isn’t able to play, I can imagine how badly he wants to.
Admittedly as a Bucks fan tho I’m glad he’ll get some more rest for those injuries. https://t.co/YNKODd3ZLj— 🦌 (@SnellSZN) August 11, 2023
Parody account @HubieTalksHoops poked fun at Antetokounmpo's statement after being eliminated last postseason.
“There is no injury. Only steps to better health.” pic.twitter.com/rgGw1Ng4O5
— Hubie Talks Hoops (@HubieTalksHoops) August 11, 2023
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