Greek star Giannis Antetokounmpo will not compete in the 2023 Basketball World Cup. The Milwaukee Bucks player underwent surgery on his left knee and was not medically cleared for the competition, which begins on August 25. In his social networks, the athlete made it clear that it was not a personal choice, but that the absence was his “only option”.
Giannis said in his statement that he was saddened by the departure of the Greek national team. The player stated that his biggest career goal at the moment is for Greece to qualify for the 2024 Paris Games.
– It wasn’t a choice, but my only option. I am extremely disappointed about this, but it was a decision made by my doctors. I will continue to push myself and be ready for the next time my name is called out. My personal goal, and that of the team as well, is to qualify for the 2024 Olympics and have the honor of representing my country’s national team next year – said Antetokounmpo.
Even with the absence of Giannis, the Greek national team will have his brothers Kostas and Thanais, who also play in the NBA. Greece faces the United States, Jordan and New Zealand in the group stage.
The Basketball World Cup guarantees seven direct spots for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
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