Giannis Antetokounmpo of Greece and Alperen Sengun of Turkey issued public apologies for inflammatory remarks made on social media throughout the ultimate days of EuroBasket 2025.
Antetokounmpo acknowledged making an inappropriate remark in response to disrespectful messages, emphasizing that he by no means supposed to offend anybody and expressed respect for Turkey and other people worldwide.
His feedback on an Instagram dwell stream, during which he stated, “Take the f-cking Turkish flag out of right here” after Greece’s win over Finland within the silver-medal recreation, drew criticism.
Sengun additionally apologized, describing a publish following Turkey’s semifinal win over Greece as a “communication mistake” and stressing his respect for Greek folks.
The remark, “Wouldn’t the ocean climate be good?” was extensively interpreted by Greeks as a reference to the 1922 burning of Smyrna throughout the Greco-Turkish Conflict, a delicate historic occasion.
To exhibit reconciliation, Antetokounmpo shared a photograph of himself and Sengun hugging after a Milwaukee Bucks–Houston Rockets recreation, captioned with a message about taking part in for the love of their nations and the sport, and reminding followers that sports activities ought to unite, not divide.
The alternate between the 2 gamers initially escalated after Sengun commented that “Giannis is an incredible participant however not an awesome passer” relating to Turkey’s semifinal technique.
Antetokounmpo responded throughout the bronze-medal presser by deflecting the criticism, saying he focuses on his personal response slightly than partaking in back-and-forth arguments, highlighting his on-court efficiency because the true measure.
Greece coach Vassilis Spanoulis additionally weighed in, remarking that Sengun was “a really, very small child to speak about Giannis,” underscoring the age and expertise distinction between the 2 stars.
General, each gamers sought to make clear their intentions, apologize for any offense, and emphasize respect and sportsmanship.
Giannis Antetokounmpo, Alperen Sengun apologize for social media commentshttps://t.co/0nHexghIgY
— Eurohoops (@Eurohoopsnet) September 16, 2025
