NBA veteran Ricky Rubio reveals suicidal thoughts and imposter syndrome during peak of career
veteran known for his quiet presence on the field, has revealed a painful truth that fans never saw. In a recent Spanish interview, the former point guard admitted to having suicidal thoughts and fights against Imposter syndrome even during their proudest career moments.
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Behind the cheers and bright lights, Rubio's inner battle paints a shocking picture of silent suffering, reminding everyone how hidden mental health struggles can be even for champions.
Ricky Rubio shares how he struggled during the 2023 World Cup
In a recent interview on a Spanish show called Lo de Evolve, Ricky Rubio spoke about what he went through in 2023. He said one night during the World Cup, he felt like giving up on everything.
'I didn't want to go on,' he said. 'Not just with basketball, but with life.'
Rubio explained that everything felt heavy. He said it was difficult to find meaning in anything. At that time he had taken a break from playing with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Later that season, he resigned from the NBA.
He said he had to go away to take care of his mental health.
Ricky Rubio says he felt like a fraud even when he won big
Rubio also talked about the 2019 World Cup. He helped Spain win and was named MVP. But even then, he didn't feel proud.
He said, 'I would get an award and think, 'I don't deserve this.'
Rubio started playing pro basketball in Spain when he was just 14. He entered the NBA in 2012 with the Minnesota Timberwolves. He also played for the Utah Jazz, Phoenix Suns, and Cleveland Cavaliers.
NBA veteran Ricky Rubio reveals suicidal thoughts and imposter syndrome during peak of career (Image Source: Getty Images)
He had two serious knee injuries, one in 2012 and another in 2021. He also dealt with ankle and hip problems for years. These injuries kept him from playing full seasons.
Early in his NBA career, he once told a reporter that he was having trouble sleeping. After that, an older player from another team warned him: 'Don't tell the media your weak spots. We're all sharks. If we smell blood, we'll go after you.'
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Rubio ended his career with good stats: 10.8 points, 7.4 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game. But now we know, behind those numbers, was a man who was hurting inside.
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