Ann Waters bids farewell catchy: ‘The critics gave me extra fuel’ | Basketball

“After a one-of-a-kind experience at the Olympics, it’s time for me to say goodbye to my days as a player,” Wauters begins. “There is something special about the Games. The whole world is united around the sport, it is intense, it comes with a lot of emotion and there are many first things. The first time Belgium qualified in women’s basketball, it was the first time we managed to get into the quarter-finals.”

“Just because it hasn’t happened yet doesn’t mean it can’t. I was inspired to run among the best athletes in the world, athletes who are uncomfortable with the boundaries that are said to exist. Records and boundaries are being broken.”

“There were also many first steps in my career without me realizing it. WNBA first draft, first Belgian to win the Euroleague and become MVP.”

“But more important than my own personal accomplishments is to see how others follow in their footsteps. How nice to see Emma Messiman develop into one of the best players in the world? Or Julie Allemand and Kim Mustagh gained that WNBA experience.”

“I worked hard for 3 years to get to the games. There were many challenges with cartilage damage in both the knees and aging every day. The long hours I spent on the parquet, heading to Antwerp for the best rehab exercises.”

“I even planted an entire room with special weights and a treadmill in my basement. I was surrounded by people who pushed me, who believed in me. Critics gave me extra fuel to keep the fire burning inside me.”

“The beauty of basketball is that you can’t achieve anything without your team. I’ve played for many different teams, with women from all over the world. Thank you for expanding my view of the world. Great memories to celebrate the successes, but also comforting each other in difficult times will remain. engraved in my memory forever.”

“I am so grateful to be able to leave the path I want. This orange ball will always have a special place in my heart. It is time for a new chapter with new dreams and ambitions and I am sure there will also be many challenges to follow.”

“I was absolutely stunned the first day we arrived at Olympic Village. The opening ceremonies felt like a fairy tale. I had to push myself a few times. Yes, it does happen.”

“Life is about the journey, not the destination. And that journey changes you as a person. To achieve this dream, you have to make sacrifices and my family has supported me every step of the way. I couldn’t be happier and more grateful.”