Giannis Antetokounmpo has come a long way since his struggles to become of the most established NBA players in the league. And after defeating the Phoenix Suns in Game 6 of the NBA Finals last season, leading the Milwaukee Bucks to an NBA championship after half a century, he hasn’t stopped making the headlines. And it seems like that won’t be changing anytime soon, as he becomes GQ’s athlete of the year.

The Milwaukee Bucks have hardly been the team they were a season ago, hanging by a string with a 6-8 record. However, the only thing consistent about them is Giannis’ stardom. Their Greek Freak and two-time MVP has been named GQ’s 2021 Athlete of the Year. He has made his way onto their cover page as part of their 26th annual publication called “Men of the Year”.

The point of this installment is to give attention to all those men that have had a certain impact on culture. Apart from him, they have also included musician of the year, Lil Nas X, along with superhero of the year, Tom Holland, in this issue. And as per the magazine, 2021 has been the year to showcase bravery, something these three men embody perfectly.

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Why Giannis Antetokounmpo was picked for this incredible opportunity?

Giannis Antetokounmpo has had quite an inspiring life story. From barely getting one meal to eat a day and barely meeting ends to the visa issues that almost forced him to give up his career as a professional basketball player, the Bucks superstar’s determination never trembles.

So, it’s only fitting they cover his story in their theme for bravery. What’s crazier is that this isn’t the first time GQ has taken an interest in the 26-year-old. Back in Greece, a young photographer was given the opportunity to click him and the new watch that he was donning after the playoffs.

But the first time that Antetokounmpo was on their cover page to now, there is a stark difference in his demeanor. The first Giannis is described a youngster ready to show the world what he is made of. There is drive and thirst in his eyes to prove himself. And the second Giannis looks rich, popular, established, confident, with the ability to stun anyone.

It looks like he has come a long way. Not just on the basketball court, but off it as well. And there is no doubt that there is only more success waiting for him from here as well.

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