Additional Coverage:
- Brittney Griner says she thought about killing herself during first few weeks in Russian jail (newsbreak.com)
In a revealing glimpse into her harrowing experience in a Russian detention center, WNBA star Brittney Griner opened up about contemplating suicide while being held on drug charges. Griner’s tumultuous journey is outlined in her forthcoming memoir, “Coming Home,” which is expected to hit shelves on May 7, detailing her arrest in Moscow after authorities discovered vape cartridges containing cannabis oil in her luggage.
Brittney Griner, a renowned athlete playing for the Phoenix Mercury, faced a dire mental health crisis during her detention, admitting that the thought of suicide crossed her mind. However, the fear that Russian officials might refuse to repatriate her remains to her family dissuaded her from taking such a drastic step. Her arrest not only cast a spotlight on her personal ordeal but also occurred amidst the escalating tensions between the United States and Russia, amplified by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The world watched as diplomatic efforts to secure Griner’s release unfolded, culminating in a high-profile prisoner swap for Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout. As part of her attempts to secure freedom, Griner was compelled to pen a letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin, seeking forgiveness and expressing gratitude, a move that highlights the complex geopolitical implications of her detention.
Despite her release, Griner’s memoir reveals her disappointment over the failure to also secure the freedom of Paul Whelan, another American detained in Russia, indicating a bittersweet end to her own ordeal. As she readies to return to the court with the Phoenix Mercury, with the WNBA season commencing on May 14, Griner’s story is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities and challenges athletes can face abroad, as well as the intricate interplay of sports, diplomacy, and personal resilience.