Greek basketball fans offered a touching show of support to Italian basketball player Achille Polonara, who is currently battling leukaemia in a hospital in Valencia.
Although physically absent from the EuroBasket tournament taking place in Limassol, Polonara’s spirit remains firmly with the Italian national team. Sharing his thoughts from hospital, he expressed unwavering support for his teammates.
“From the hospital, I’ll be shouting for Italy,” wrote Polonara. “This illness has taught me to love the simple things. Let’s go, brothers! EuroBasket begins in Limassol, and I’ll be in Valencia for at least a week. I’ve just completed my second round of chemotherapy and still have a few days of hospitalisation ahead.”
The 32-year-old continued with an emotional appeal: “Good luck, my brothers. And one request: think of me and play with even more energy and competitive spirit. I dream of you returning home with a medal. I love you, champions.”
Moved by his words and circumstances, Greek fans attending the Greece–Italy match at the Spyros Kyprianou Arena raised a banner reading “Forza Achille Polonara” as a sign of solidarity.
Greek fans are chanting "Achille Polonara", and it warms my heart. 🥹❤️#EuroBasket | #MakeYourMark pic.twitter.com/CKCMpJFiAU
— FIBA EuroBasket (@EuroBasket) August 28, 2025
Also read: Giannis Antetokounmpo joins Greece for EuroBasket 2025 in Cyprus
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