Antetokounmpo not fit enough to play in World Cup

Giannis Antetokounmpo will not take part of the upcoming World Cup later this month as the Bucks forward is not fit enough.

The 28-year-old underwent knee surgery earlier this month and he and his medical advisors have decided it is best to stay away from competitive play.

“Everyone knows my passion and love for my national team has and never will change,” Antetokounmpo wrote in a statement. “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. But after months of work and multiple meetings with medical staff it is clear that I am not ready to compete in the level that I need to be to participate in the World Cup.”

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Antetokounmpo is no stranger to injuries as he missed 19 games of the regular season, 11 of which were related with a left knee soreness.

His absence will be greatly felt by Greece, who go against U.S., Jordan and New Zealand in the group stage.