The Spain and Cavaliers guard put his career on hold and did not compete in the FIBA World Cup.

In light of his Spanish national team’s preparations to defend its title at the FIBA World Cup, Cleveland Cavaliers star Ricky Rubio announced that he is taking a break from basketball to focus on addressing his mental health.

Four years ago, Rubio led Spain to an 8-0 record and the title in the most recent World Cup, making him the tournament’s MVP. The point guard, who was the first player born in the 1990s to be drafted for the NBA, was also expected to compete for Spain in the World Cup, which took place in the Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia.

“I have decided to stop my professional activity to take care of my mental health,” Rubio said in a statement. “I want to thank [everyone for] all the support I have received from the FEB to understand my decision. Today, #LaFamilia makes more sense than ever. Thank you.”

The two-time Olympic medalist asked that his “privacy be respected so that I can face these moments and be able to give more information when the time comes.”

Rubio left the training camp of the Spanish team after sitting out the 87-57 Spanish win over Venezuela in the nation’s capital.

Rubio, 33, is the oldest and most seasoned player on Cleveland’s roster in terms of NBA years. Throughout his twelve seasons in the league, he played for the Timberwolves, Jazz, and Suns in addition to the Cavs.

Due to a torn left ACL, Rubio missed most of the prior two seasons. In the 2022-23 season, he averaged 5.2 points and 3.5 assists in 33 games for the Cavs.

The Spanish Basketball Federation “wishes to express its respect, admiration, and affection for Ricky Rubio. #LaFamilia will be by the player’s side at all times.”

Rubio was the best Spanish player in the last World Cup final game against Argentina, leading the team with 20 points. Throughout the course of his NBA career, he averaged 10.7 points, 7.4 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game.