Thomas Heurtel on criticism for moving to Russia: 'I don't give a shit' / News - Basketnews.com

Thomas Heurtel posted a message on Instagram stories, saying that he doesn't give a s*** about the criticism he receives for signing with Zenit St. Petersburg.

Credit: FIBA Credit FIBA

After making a controversial move to Zenit St. Petersburg, Thomas Heurtel hit back at his critics.

In the message he posted on his Instagram stories, the 33-year-old claimed he doesn't give a s*** about the messages or criticism he receives.

"Just to let know all the people who send me messages or write comments criticizing my decision to come to Russia – I don't give a s***. So, don't be sorry, and stop wasting your time. And please, get a life. Thanks in advance," Heurtel wrote in his message to Instagram followers.

At the start of preparation for FIBA EuroBasket 2022 (August 1), the French Basketball Federation (FFBB) officially announcedthat players who represent Russian or Belarussian teams won't be available to represent the country in international tournaments.

Heurtel was among players who signed a sworn statement not to join the Russian club. However, the deal with Zenit was announced a few days after the EuroBasket ended.

FFBB confirmed that Heurtel won't receive an invitation to the national team.

"If Thomas Heurtel were to play with the club, this commitment would not be respected, the playmaker would no longer respect the selection criteria for the next international events, including the 2024 Olympic Games, following the decision taken by Federal Office on July 28," FFBB stated.

Heurtel played forReal Madridlast season but was sidelined due to disciplinary reasons throughout the majority of the second half of the year and was later dismissed.

In EuroBasket 2022, the guard averaged 10.4 points and 7.1 assists and was one of the main contributors to France's second-place finish in the tournament.

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