Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

NBA player Rudy Gobert apologises for ‘endangering’ public with coronavirus

The French player was seen ridiculing social distancing measures taken to protect infection during an interview

Jack Rathborn
Thursday 12 March 2020 21:28 GMT
Comments
(AFP via Getty Images)

Rudy Gobert has apologised for ‘endangering’ others after mocking measures to contain coronavirus by touching reporter’s microphones before the NBA player tested positive.

Teammate Donovan Mitchell also contracted the virus. Gobert was seen recently ridiculing social distancing measures taken to protect infection during an interview.

The Utah Jazz star said: “The first and most important thing is I would like to publicly apologise to the people I may have endangered.

“At the time I had no idea I was infected. I was careless and make no excuse. I hope my story serves as a warning and causes everyone to take this seriously.

“I will do whatever I can to support using my experience to educate others and prevent the spread of the virus.

“I am under great care and I will recover fully.

“Thank you again for your support. I encourage everyone to take all of the steps to stay safe and healthy.”

The NBA has also been forced to shut down for the foreseeable future amidst the positive result.

“The NBA will use this hiatus to determine next steps for moving forward in regard to the coronavirus pandemic,” a statement said.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in