In a surprising turn of events, Ricky Rubio, the talented point guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers, announced his retirement from the NBA at the age of 33. This decision sent shockwaves through the basketball world and left fans wondering about the reasons behind his unexpected departure. In this article, we will delve into the details of Ricky Rubio’s retirement, exploring the challenges he faced, his remarkable career, and the factors that led to his choice to step away from professional basketball.
What Happened to Ricky Rubio?
Ricky Rubio, the Cleveland Cavaliers’ guard, shocked fans by announcing his retirement from the NBA at 33, citing personal reasons related to his mental health. The decision came after a difficult period for Rubio, particularly on July 30, which he described as one of his life’s most challenging nights. Expected to represent Spain in the 2023 FIBA World Cup, he faced mental struggles that prompted him to pause his career the following day.
Rubio took a break from basketball in August 2023 to focus on his mental well-being, and four months later, he officially retired. Expressing a desire to share his full experience when the time is right, Rubio emphasized the importance of privacy for himself and his family. Despite obstacles like a torn ACL, Rubio had signed a significant contract with the Cavaliers in 2022, contributing to his decision to retire and prioritize mental health.
Who is Ricky Rubio?
Ricky Rubio, born on October 21, 1990, is a former professional basketball player from Spain. Known for his skills as a point guard, Rubio had an impressive career in the National Basketball Association. He started playing in the Spanish ACB League at the incredibly young age of 14, setting a record. In 2009, he became the first player born in the 1990s to be drafted into the NBA, selected fifth overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Throughout his career, Rubio played for various teams, including FC Barcelona, Utah Jazz, Phoenix Suns, and the Cleveland Cavaliers. He achieved success with multiple championships, awards, and representing Spain in international competitions. In August 2023, Rubio decided to take a break from basketball to focus on his mental health, and on January 4, 2024, he officially announced his retirement from the NBA.
| Full Name | Ricard Rubio Vives |
| Date of Birth | October 21, 1990 |
| Age | 33 |
| Birthplace | El Masnou, Spain |
| Height | 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m) |
| Weight | 190 lb |
| Position | Point guard |
| Retirement Announcement | January 4, 2024 |
| Reason for Retirement | Prioritizing mental health |
Ricky Rubio’s Career Highlights
Ricky Rubio, a skilled and dynamic basketball player from Spain, had a remarkable career in the NBA. Starting with Joventut in the Spanish ACB League at just 14, he quickly became the youngest player in ACB history. His journey continued with notable stints at FC Barcelona, where he won championships, and the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he showcased his talents in the NBA.
Despite facing an ACL injury early in his Timberwolves career, Rubio bounced back, displaying his prowess with numerous triple-doubles. His time with the Utah Jazz and Phoenix Suns also featured impactful performances, including a memorable triple-double in the playoffs.
Returning to the Timberwolves and later joining the Cleveland Cavaliers, Rubio faced challenges, including a season-ending ACL injury and a decision to prioritize mental health, ultimately announcing his retirement in January 2024 after a decorated and eventful career.
When was Ricky Rubio Drafted?
Ricky Rubio was drafted into the NBA on June 25, 2009. He was selected as the fifth overall pick in the first round of the 2009 NBA draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves. At that time, Rubio made history by becoming the first player born in the 1990s to be chosen by an NBA team.
This marked the beginning of his professional basketball journey in the United States after gaining recognition for his talent in the Spanish ACB League. Rubio’s draft into the NBA opened the door to a successful career, showcasing his skills as a point guard and earning him various accolades and achievements throughout his time in the league.
Ricky Rubio’s Career Earnings
Ricky Rubio, the Spanish basketball player, earned a substantial amount throughout his career in the National Basketball Association. Over the 12 years he played in the league, Rubio’s career earnings were significant, given his contributions to various teams. Although the exact figure is not mentioned in the provided information, it is mentioned that he had signed a three-year, $18.4 million contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers in July 2022.
Unfortunately, his career earnings details are not specified, and his decision to retire amid a contract buyout with the Cavaliers has drawn attention. Despite this, Rubio’s financial success in the NBA is evident, reflecting his skill and value as a professional basketball player over the years.
Ricky Rubio’s Net Worth
Ricky Rubio, the talented Spanish basketball player, has accumulated a net worth of $8 million, as reported by Celebrity Net Worth. Born on October 21, 1990, in El Masnou, Barcelona, Spain, Rubio has made a name for himself as a skilled point guard in the NBA, primarily playing for the Minnesota Timberwolves.
His basketball journey began at a young age, and he gained early recognition by becoming the youngest player in the Spanish ABC League at just 14 years old. Rubio was drafted as the fifth overall pick in the 2009 NBA Draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves, marking the first player born in the 1990s to be selected.
Beyond his NBA career, he also played for FC Barcelona and has achieved notable success with the Spanish national team. Despite taking a break from basketball to focus on his mental well-being, Rubio’s net worth reflects his financial accomplishments throughout his successful career.
Ricky Rubio’s Personal Life
Ricky Rubio’s wife is Sara Colome, a businesswoman from Spain. Unfortunately, details about Sara Colome’s age and height are not known. She runs a restaurant in Badalona, Spain, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit. The couple has been together for several years, and they officially confirmed their relationship during the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup.
Ricky Rubio and Sara Colome tied the knot after their public acknowledgment, and they welcomed their first child, a son named Liam, on January 14, 2020. Despite being in the public eye, Sara Colome maintains a private life, and information about her is limited, suggesting that she values her privacy.
Why Did Ricky Rubio Retire?
Ricky Rubio retired from the NBA at the age of 33, primarily due to personal reasons related to his mental health. The decision came after a challenging period, notably on July 30, when he faced emotional difficulties, leading him to a dark place. The retirement announcement followed his hiatus from the sport, which began on August 5, as he grappled with mental struggles.
Despite having signed a significant contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2022, Rubio prioritized his well-being over his basketball career. He expressed a desire to share his full experience at the right time, hoping it would provide support to others facing similar challenges, while also emphasizing the importance of privacy for himself and his family as he focuses on his mental health and daily improvement.
What Happened To Ricky Rubio – FAQs
- When did Ricky Rubio announce his retirement from the NBA?
Ricky Rubio announced his retirement from the NBA on January 4, 2024. - What was the primary reason for Ricky Rubio’s retirement?
Ricky Rubio retired primarily due to personal reasons related to his mental health. - How old is Ricky Rubio?
Ricky Rubio was born on October 21, 1990, making him 33 years old at the time of his retirement. - Who is Ricky Rubio’s wife?
Ricky Rubio’s wife is Sara Colome, a businesswoman from Spain. - How many children do Ricky Rubio and Sara Colome have?
Ricky Rubio and Sara Colome have one child together, a son named Liam, born on January 14, 2020.
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