The captain of the Georgian basketball team, Tornike Shengelia, has publicized a statement on his decision to play in CSKA Moscow.
Shengelia is grateful to people who support him in his decision.
"First of all, I would like to thank all the people who expressed their support. I wish to have a chance to thank each of you personally!
The message is not an excuse; it is for those who do not want to understand.
I cannot explain to these people how I feel when a 10-11 years old boy, I was listening to the anthem played during the games of the Georgian National team; then, I closed my eyes and imagined myself among those players.
I can't explain what it means to me to watch the games of the Georgian national team on TV and how horrible it feels when you are at the peak of your career but can't help your team, because others decided it for you", says the basketball player.
"I repeat, I, Tornike Shengelia, was, am, and will be the bearer of the Georgian soul everywhere and always and no comment or statement made by anyone can change it!
I will go through this ordeal most peacefully because God stands by my side. I am accountable only to him, and he knows who I am" - Shengelia said.
Tornike Shengelia released the statement in response to the part of society that criticized him for joining CSKA Moscow. The Russian club signed a three-year contract with the Georgian forward.
