To one shock decisionthat surprised the basketball world, the John Papapetrou announced his retirement from active action at age just 31 years old. The international forward, with a long -standing presence in top Euroleague teams and a key role in National Greece, announced its decision via a post on social media.
Papapetrou started his professional career at Olympiccontinued at Panathinaicwhile also fighting abroad with Partizan’s jersey before returning to the “clover”. Stood out for his athleticism, defense consistency and leadership presence, while being Stable member of the “blue whites” for over a decade.
His decision to retire at such a young age was accompanied by emotion and respect From the sports world, with many thanking him for his contribution to Greek basketball.
The post by John Papapetrou:
“Where to start …
In life there are times when even if you know they will come it is difficult to deal with.
Two years ago, in October 2023, while I was traveling to Qatar for knee surgery, one thought went through my mind for the first time: maybe my journey to basketball is coming to an end.
Doctors tried to reassure me, but the signs were there.
Today, almost two years later, after much thought and many heartfelt discussions, with the support of my family and the people I love and trust, this thought became a decision.
With great gratitude on this journey, today the day has come to close this wonderful capital of my life.
It’s not the end I had imagined, I thought the last whistle would sound much later. But a friend once said to me: ” Anything that happens in life, it can evolve into something good or it can develop into something bad. From the greatest good it can be bad and from the greatest evil, something good may occur.
Life is unpredictable. With this mentality and with respect for myself, I made this decision.
First of all, I want to thank my family, friends and all who walked with me on this path. They stood by me not in moments of joy and success, but much more in pain and failure. We treated everything together. I am also grateful to every Association President, a member of the administration, coach, teammate and especially to the people of Staff, who work in the background. Your help – especially the one left invisible to the public – allowed me to work everyday
To anyone who supported me – even those who criticized me – thank you. These 12 years of professional basketball was a gift. Life is up and down. I always tried to stay focused on the good.
In every team I had the honor of representing: Panathinaikos, Olympiacos, Partizan. Thank you. Many know the special bond that connects me and my family with Panathinaikos.
Panathinaikos will always have a special place in my heart. Above all, I would like to thank the Hellenic Basketball Federation for the honor of representing the country over the years.
When I was a little kid playing basketball, I could never imagine – no matter how much I thought myself – that I would reach this level. But above all, I could never imagine the love I would receive from you.
” Thanks ” looks very little to express my gratitude. I wish I had the power to make you feel as many feelings you offered me. Thank you from the depths of my heart
Although this huge capital, which means so much, ends, I do not feel sad. On the contrary, I feel joy. The good and the difficult times, all gave me lessons that I would carry with me.
Sport teaches you a lot: Discipline and Consistency, Hard Work, Teamwork and Cooperation, Perseverance and Strength, to deal with success and failure, respect. Principles I will have with me in what follows below.
And while the future seems uncertain, I feel determined. Full of energy. Ready to work hard on whatever I choose to do.
With respect,
John Papapetrou
PS Sport is something beautiful. Unites people. Let’s not forget it, especially in those times we live”
See this post on Instagram.
Source: Sport Fm
I am currently a news writer for News Bulletin247 where I mostly cover sports news. I have always been interested in writing and it is something I am very passionate about. In my spare time, I enjoy reading and spending time with my family and friends.
