CLEVELAND (WJW) – Ricky Rubio, a 12-year veteran of the NBA and a member of the Spanish National Team, announced Saturday that he was putting his career on hold indefinitely to focus on mental health. Rubio, who currently plays for the Cleveland Cavaliers, asked for support in a statement issued through the Spanish Basketball Federation (FEB).
He did not disclose any details that led to the decision. "I decided to stop my professional activity to take care of my mental health," Rubio said. "I want to thank all the support I have received from the FEB to understand my decision. Today #family makes more sense than ever. Thank you. I would ask that my privacy be respected so that I can face these moments and be able to give more information when the time is right.”
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - APRIL 23: Ricky Rubio #13 of the Cleveland Cavaliers reacts during Game Four of the Eastern Conference First Round Playoffs against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on April 23, 2023 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MARCH 23: Ricky Rubio #13 of the Cleveland Cavaliers calls a play during the second half against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on March 23, 2023 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. The Cavaliers won 116-114. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
MIAMI, FLORIDA - MARCH 08: Ricky Rubio #13 of the Cleveland Cavaliers dribbles against Caleb Martin #16 of the Miami Heat during the second quarter of the game at Miami-Dade Arena on March 08, 2023 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 24: Ricky Rubio #13 of the Cleveland Cavaliers shoots a three point shot in the second quarter against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on January 24, 2023 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 24: Ricky Rubio #13 of the Cleveland Cavaliers passes the ball in the third quarter against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on January 24, 2023 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
The 32-year-old player has two seasons and $12.5 million left on a contract signed with the Cavs last summer. Cavs GM Koby Altman said Rubio informed them Saturday of his decision.
“We were informed today by Ricky and his representation that he has decided to step away from his illustrious basketball career to focus on his mental health at this time. We understand how difficult of a decision this was for him and will balance providing whatever support we can while simultaneously respecting Ricky’s request for privacy.” Altman said.
Rubio was set to play in the FIBA Basketball World Cup with the defending champions of the Spanish National Team later this month. He withdrew from the team Friday.
