RICKY Rubio will put his basketball career on hold, including Spain's forthcoming title defense at the 2023 Fiba Basketball World Cup, to focus on his mental health.
Ricky Rubio out of World Cup
Roughly three weeks before the global showpiece, the Spanish Basketball Federation (FEB) released a personal statement from the 2019 World Cup MVP on his decision to skip the World Cup and step away from professional basketball for the time being.
"I have decided to stop my professional activity to take care of my mental health. I want to thank you for all the support I have received from the FEB to understand my decision," the Cleveland Cavaliers guard said.
"Today, #LaFamilia makes more sense than ever. Thank you. I would ask that my privacy be respected in order to be able to face these moments and be able to give more information when the time comes," he added.
The World Cup's all-time assists leader sat out the first season under his new three-year deal with the Cavaliers back in 2021 after a season-ending ACL tear on his left knee — the exact same injury he picked up nine years prior.
Despite an injury-marred pro career, Rubio remains one of the most integral centerpieces of the defending world champions.
Rubio was already in the Spanish training camp ahead of his recent decision, which turned out to be the reason for his absence in La Roja's opening tuneup match in its World Cup buildup on Friday against Venezuela.
Now without Rubio, the world No. 1 squad will parade youth and experience led by Hernangomez brothers Willy and Juancho in Group F against Brazil, Cote d'Ivoire, and Iran in Spain's title retention bid beginning August 25.
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