Ricky Rubio, the Spanish basketball player and former NBA star, opened up in a detailed interview with Jordi Évole on the Spanish television program "Lo de Évole" about his struggles with mental health and the pressures of elite sports. Rubio revealed that in 2023 he experienced suicidal thoughts, stating, "One night I said I don't want to continue, not with basketball anymore, but with life." He discussed the impact of his obsession with improvement on his personal life, describing how he lived in constant suffering and felt like a robot due to the routine. Rubio also reflected on his early career, beginning as a professional player at 15 with Joventut de Badalona and his transition to the NBA with the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he played over 700 games. He acknowledged the advice from a veteran player to avoid showing weakness publicly. Rubio expressed a desire to play basketball purely for enjoyment, without the pressures associated with his name and reputation, saying, "I’d like to play basketball without being Ricky Rubio." He currently participates in amateur basketball leagues with friends to try to enjoy the sport again. Rubio also shared insights into his competitive mindset, admitting that he always expects to lose in order to push himself harder. He cited Pau Gasol as a role model, aiming to surpass his career. The interview touched on the sacrifices Rubio made, including leaving his wife and newborn son in Phoenix to continue his professional career. Rubio criticized the NBA's transformation into a spectacle and reflected on his decision to withdraw from the World Cup, describing the emotional toll it took on him. The candid discussion highlights the challenges faced by elite athletes in balancing mental health and professional demands.