Former basketball player Pau Gasol received the Creu de Sant Jordi this Wednesday, one of the highest awards given by the Generalitat de Catalunya. The Catalan president, Pere Aragonès, has presented the award to Sant Boi in the Torres García room for being a “reference” in sports and for his “commitment” to society.
“It is an honor to receive this distinction. I am very grateful to be worthy of this distinction with so much history and relevance in Catalonia”, began his speech Gasol, winner of two NBA rings with the Los Angeles Lakers (2009 and 2010) and champion of the world with the Spanish team in 2006, among many other titles.
“I would not understand success if I am not able to transform it into helping, especially the most disadvantaged (…) I encourage you to continue working for the smallest and most vulnerable to create a better tomorrow,” the former Barça player concluded his message, 41 years old, who through the Gasol Foundation and as a UNICEF ambassador has contributed to improving society.
“It is an honor to award Gasol the Creu de Sant Jordi for a lifetime of sporting successes that have brought happiness to many people. He is one of the most important athletes in the history of Catalonia”, said Aragonès, in addition to pointing out his social work: “He is a sports benchmark. He is also a benchmark for his commitment to sports values ??that he has taken beyond the basketball court”.
“He is a model for society, especially for those who are starting to practice sport. That is why Pau Gasol’s exemplary role is so important”, added Natàlia Garriga, Minister of Culture of the Generalitat, in an act where Gasol was accompanied of his loved ones, including his wife and daughter, his parents and his little brother Adrià.
Gasol should have received the Creu de Sant Jordi months ago, but for family reasons the award ceremony was postponed until June. On the other hand, last week the President of the Spanish Government, Pedro Sánchez, presented him with the Grand Cross of the Royal Order of Sports Merit at a ceremony in La Moncloa.
