The French national basketball team has retired the number 9 jersey for the legendary player

In anticipation of the 2024 Olympics, a ceremony took place in Lyon where Tony Parker's jersey number was officially retired by the French national basketball team.

Interestingly, Parker became the first basketball player in the history of the French national team to have his number retired. He played under the number 9.

"This is a lot of emotion and love. It's never easy when it's the first time in history," said Parker.

Parker played 181 games for the national team, winning gold at the 2013 European Championship, silver in 2011, and bronze in 2005 and 2015. The 42-year-old Parker retired from basketball in 2019.

Additionally, in the group stage of the Olympic tournament, the French team will face Japan, Brazil, and Germany.