USA Today via Reuters
Oct 19, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (6) talks to Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) during the second half at Staples Center. The Warriors won 121-114. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-USA TODAY Sports
USA Today via Reuters
Oct 19, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (6) talks to Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) during the second half at Staples Center. The Warriors won 121-114. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-USA TODAY Sports
Mental health and well-being have become an increasingly important topic in the NBA over the years. A few months ago, 2021 NBA champion Giannis Antetokounmpo dropped a bombshell about his mental health during a tumultuous time in his career. Following his explosive admission, more and more athletes are coming out honestly about their struggles. The latest athlete to come out honestly about his mental health is Cleveland Cavaliers star guard Ricky Rubio.
After two decent seasons with the Cavs, the Spaniard has taken a huge decision and put his career on hold. However, this decision has invited a lot of flak from fans on Twitter.
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Cleveland Cavaliers guard prioritizes his mental health
Ricard Rubio, better known as Ricky Rubio, has mesmerized NBA fans ever since he burst onto the scene in 2011 while playing for the Minnesota Timberwolves. After two decent seasons with the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Spaniard is ready to take a major decision.
USA Today via Reuters
Nov 13, 2021; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Ricky Rubio (3) drives to the basket between Boston Celtics guard Romeo Langford (9) and forward Aaron Nesmith (26) during the first half at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
He recently announced that he will take a break from basketball in order to prioritize his mental health. In a major announcement, the 2011-12 All-Rookie had a lot to say.
“I have decided to stop my professional activity to take care of my mental health”, said Rubio, per a statement released by the Spanish basketball federation.
Ricky Rubio announced he's putting his career on hold to focus on his mental health. pic.twitter.com/A80ibVV4nJ
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) August 5, 2023
He further added, “I would ask my privacy be respected so that I can face these moments and be able to give more information when the time is right.”
This heartbreaking news comes just weeks before Spain prepares to defend their FIBA World Cup title. The veteran guard was expected to be an integral part of the Spanish team in the FIBA World Cup starting on the 25th of August.
He led his country to the title four years ago. In fact, he was adjudged the MVP in the 2019 World Cup averaging 16.4 points and 6.0 assists during the tournament. Rubio had his best scoring game (20 points) against Argentina in the Gold Medal match.
NBA fans leave no stone unturned to bash Rubio
Despite this heartbreaking news, some NBA fans on Twitter have bashed Rubio’s decision. Some have even belittled his situation by comparing the 32-year-old to NBA superstars LeBron James and Stephen Curry.
One fan did not like Rubio’s plea for privacy.
Im very confused… i barely remember the guy playing. BUT i get VERY IRRITATED by people announcing they stepping away to focus on they mental health and asking for privacy.. like dude WHAT? Coming out of nowhere to say this without saying anything and asking for privacy… NOPE!
— Jay Davidson (@JoshonKingBlaze) August 5, 2023
A fan seeks more answers in exchange for “privacy”.
You just asking for people to go looking because why else would you say this? Once i find out THEN i wont say nothing.. but your not gonna tell me to respect your privacy and not tell us ANYTHING! You been in the nba FOR HOW LONG?! Nah you is not no rookie!
— Jay Davidson (@JoshonKingBlaze) August 5, 2023
One fan wished Rubio had stepped away quietly instead of making a fuss of the situation.
Good for Rubio (and by the way: if Rubio had quietly stepped away from the game, the general public wouldn’t have known and even knowing now wouldn’t disrespect his privacy, as he is no Lebron or Curry).
— Lulu (@lskabg) August 5, 2023
Some fans also speculate this is probably the end of Rubio’s NBA career.
Definitely not time to sit back. I’m guessing it’s time for him to hang it up
— josey (@josey_wales_) August 5, 2023
Another fan chimes in with the retirement comment…
Just retire bro
— David (@David96464821) August 5, 2023
Despite these demeaning comments, the majority of fans on social media sympathize with Ricky Rubio as he looks to take care of himself and his mental health.
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What is your favorite memory of Ricky Rubio? Let us know in the comments below.
Written by
Edited by
Saumya Khanduja