MADRID (Spain) - One of Spain's most celebrated basketball figures, Sergio Llull, has decided to step away from international play, ending an illustrious career with the national team.
Known for his reliable three-point shooting, especially in the big game and clutch moments, Llull retires from the international stage, having played an integral part in making Spain one of the powerhouses in world basketball.
During his renowned career with the senior national team spanning over 15 years, the 37-year-old captured the FIBA Basketball World Cup in 2019, three FIBA EuroBasket titles in 2009, 2011, and 2015, alongside a bronze in 2013.
He also has Olympic silver and bronze medals, which he claimed at London 2012 and Rio 2016, respectively.
"It's been an honor, an amazing ride. I am blessed to have been part of an amazing group, played with my idols, and shared the court with them," said Llull.
"I put many things in the balance, I’m reaching 38, my dream is to still play some years with the club, but my family misses me, and after thinking a lot, I had to make a decision."
The veteran guard was part of the Spanish side that won FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 in China, averaging 10.5 points, 1.3 rebounds, and 3.8 assists a game, including 15 points in the Final against Argentina.
A moment, Llull says, will live on as his most cherished international memory.
"I would pick the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019, with Rudy lifting the trophy in a tournament where we weren’t favorites but managed to do it - it was incredible," Llull said.
Llull led Spain last summer at the Paris 2024 Men’s Olympic Basketball Tournament, averaging a career-high 14.3 points and 4.3 assists in what turned out to be his international curtain call.
Before joining the senior ranks, the Real Madrid guard was a dominant force for Spain in the junior ranks, winning gold at the FIBA U18 EuroBasket in 2004 and silver at FIBA U20 EuroBasket 2007.
With the Spanish capital Madrid awarded the right to host FIBA EuroBasket 2029, Llull can now look forward to being a fan of what he hopes will be the next generation of Spain's stars.
"[I am] thrilled with the EuroBasket 2029 announcement, I’ll be there as a fan for sure," Llull proudly stated.
"Defending the national team jersey is a huge responsibility, an honor. Hopefully, the young generations will show that with the La Familia values, they're ready to take the torch."
FIBA