Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo has spoken out strongly against the media after false stories about his personal life began circulating online. On Monday, the two-time NBA MVP posted a message on Instagram, asking people to “stop lying and endangering” his family. Having just recovered from a COVID-19 infection, the Greek forward stated his children should not be pulled into the public eye given his celebrity. His emotional article caught the attention of viewers and journalists all across social media.
Giannis Antetokounmpo calls out media over family safety
Giannis Antetokounmpo shared a long message on Instagram, asking the media to respect his family’s privacy. “Publicity is a result of my choices, not my children’s,” he wrote. “Every child has the right to grow up without the pressure of publicity. As a parent, it’s my duty to protect their privacy so they can grow up with confidence and dignity.”
Giannis Antetokounmpo has COVID and will miss media day, per @JamalCollier pic.twitter.com/r9bnsdKbYZ
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) September 29, 2025
Mariah Riddlesprigger, his wife, has previously remarked on how memes and social media jokes often make use of images of their children. With three small children, the couple would rather maintain their family life secret.
Giannis’s message followed several online reports misrepresenting his personal life while he was in Greece recovering from COVID-19. Late September he tested positive and missed the Bucks’ media day. He stayed in Greece until he received a negative result before returning to the United States.
Giannis Antetokounmpo returns to practice after COVID-19 recovery
On Saturday in Miami, where the Milwaukee Bucks are conducting some of their camp, Giannis Antetokounmpo resumed training. The disease slowed him down, he stated. “It took a toll on my body. I’m not 100% yet,” he told reporters. “I’m taking it day by day, getting back in shape.”
As part of his rehabilitation strategy, he engaged in light workouts and non-contact drills. The Bucks have about 18 days till their first regular-season contest.
Trade rumors continue to surround him even as he concentrates on his health. Some believe the Bucks’ recent re-signing of his brother Thanasis Antetokounmpo to a one-year deal shows the team’s will to keep Giannis content and for the long run in Milwaukee.
