He announced that he is withdrawing from the final of the World Challenge in Sabotelli Lefteris Petrouniasalthough he qualified with an impressive performance in the qualifiers.

The Greek hoops champion said he did not want to risk an easy final as his mind was on the families of the victims and the devastation caused by Storm Daniel.

In more detail, his statement via Instagram:

“My performance yesterday in the Sobatelli qualifier was exactly as we had planned, both in execution and in the points.

It was a very strong test before the crucial Olympic qualifying World Championships which are in 2 weeks.

I will withdraw from an admittedly easy final as I don’t want to risk and push my body on two consecutive days of competition.

My thoughts are with the grieving families, the endless devastation the country has suffered and the people who are left behind and have to start their lives all over again.

Good luck, I hope you find strength soon and smile again.”

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A post shared by Eleftherios Petrounias (@eleftherios_petrounias)