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Brittney Griner Opens Up About her Detention in Russia
WNBA star Brittney Griner recently shared details about her harrowing experience during her detention in Russia following her arrest on drug-related charges in 2022. In an interview on ABC’s “20/20,” Griner revealed that she contemplated taking her own life during her initial weeks in a Russian jail.
Griner, who is set to release her memoir titled “Coming Home” on May 7, described the emotional turmoil she endured while detained in Russia. She admitted, “I wanted to take my life more than once in the first weeks. I felt like leaving here so badly.” Despite these dark thoughts, she ultimately decided against it out of fear that her body wouldn’t be returned to her family.
Her detention coincided with escalating tensions between Russia and the U.S. due to the invasion of Ukraine. Griner was eventually released in a prisoner exchange involving Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout. Prior to her release, she was coerced into writing a letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin as a condition for her freedom.
Reflecting on her departure from Russia, Griner expressed disappointment that another American detainee, Paul Whelan, was not included in the exchange. She recalled the moment she boarded the plane to return home, hoping to see Whelan alongside her. However, she was disheartened when he was not present, leaving her with a sense of concern for his fate.
The ordeal Griner endured was a stark contrast to her professional career as a member of the Phoenix Mercury in the WNBA. Despite the challenges she faced, Griner’s resilience and courage are evident as she prepares to return to the court when the WNBA season kicks off on May 14.
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