By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net
Guy Pnini (39), the record-holder for the most appearances in the Israeli League and a European champion, has chosen to retire from active play. With this decision, he is trading in his playing shoes for a role within Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv’s coaching staff alongside Oded Katash.
In an emotionally charged press conference, he declared his retirement and elaborated on the factors that led to his decision, culminating in a professional career spanning 22 years.
“Today, I am concluding a significant chapter in my life by announcing my retirement from active play. I can still vividly remember my days as a 6-year-old boy, bubbling with excitement at the thought of donning the jersey of Maccabi Tel Aviv. Now, at 39 years old, I am overwhelmed with emotions as I wear this jersey for the final time. As an athlete, the words ‘I retire’ carry a sense of trepidation. Despite my strong desire to continue playing, my legs have signaled that it’s time to stop. Ultimately, my body has made the decision for me to step away,” he expressed.
Last summer, Guy Pnini made a comeback to Maccabi, and throughout the past season, he bolstered his total appearances in the league to 521. Accompanied by his fifth championship victory in his career, he now adds this triumph to his Euroleague championship in 2014, 11 state cups, the Adriatic League championship, and four successes in the Winner Cup.
Throughout his career, Pnini also played for Maccabi Ra’anana, Bnei Hasharon, Hapoel Jerusalem, FMP, Keravnos, and Hapoel Holon.