Milos Teodosic, farewell to basketball at 38: the letter of the'former Virtus Bologna

“Dear friends – reads -, respected basketball fans and connoisseurs, first of all, thank you for 30 years of shared battles, joys, happiness and sorrows. The time has come for me to say goodbye to a phase of my love for the magical game played under the hoops. Behind me – behind us – are years filled with passion, struggle and sacrifice. There have been trophies won, but also finals lost. It’s all part of basketball, and it’s all part of life. And I would not change anything. I would do it all the same way, again!”.

“Thanks to my people in Valjevo, my Serbia, and all the coaches from whom I have had the privilege of knowing this game. I have not (yet) known it completely. Basketball and I will continue to exchange knowledge and experiences for a long time to come – until the end of my life. I do not want to name individuals, decisive moments or pivotal games … because each of those “details” – each coach and each teammate – has been important to my career. My deepest gratitude goes to my family. They are my greatest pride. Lately I have realized that the greatest treasure of my playing career is this: I will have something to show my children! As long as they grow up a little more… In their eyes, and for them, I am and will always be the most accomplished. I don’t want to commit a personal foul at the end, so here’s a collective message: thank you so much to each and every one of your teammates — really to each and every one of you. You made me a better player. I remember it well. We all play for the fans, and because of them. So, a heartfelt thank you to them too”.

“I appreciated the applause and support. The criticism motivated me, the booing made me stronger. Regardless of club loyalty, a fan always deserves respect from those of us who take the field for him. During my career, I have not read many comments or given too much weight to social media, but I have felt every breath in the stands – and every silence. That’s where inspiration comes from. It’s what drives you to become better. And now, without straying too far from who I am – and those who know me know that I rarely show much emotion in public – I still feel the need to share this: I am proud to have ended my career at a club that holds a special place in my heart. As for my love for Serbia, for wearing its coat of arms and playing under the beloved tricolor – I have already said all there was to say on the court. No words can really describe that unique, wonderful feeling that continues to shine inside me. My homeland will always be the most important and most loved thing for me. Once again, thank you, basketball. We will see each other again, only without sneakers, jersey or shorts”.