Dutch Star Worthy de Jong Beat Depression, Won Olympic Gold

A Dutch basketball player who almost quit the sport due to depression just won Olympic gold at age 38, and his journey back is inspiring a new generation.

Worthy de Jong grew up in the Bijlmer, a tough Amsterdam neighborhood where he first picked up a basketball at age 11. Named after Lakers legend James Worthy, he spent 13 seasons as a professional player, becoming one of the Netherlands' finest athletes with three championships and countless awards.

But behind the success, something was breaking. As his career progressed, de Jong felt crushed by mounting pressure and expectations that went far beyond playing the game he loved.

"I just wanted to play ball and have fun," he told Olympics.com. "It felt like a burden. I was constantly thinking about things I didn't want to think about. And it got heavy."

Heavy enough that he slipped into depression. Writing down his thoughts shocked him into realizing how serious his mental state had become, and he sought professional help.

In April 2022, de Jong announced his retirement from professional basketball. But a different version of the sport had already started calling him back.

While at his lowest point, de Jong began training Friday mornings with the Dutch 3x3 basketball team. The faster, more creative format reminded him why he fell in love with basketball as a kid on those Bijlmer courts.

"It gave me the feeling of where I once found basketball when I was younger," he said. "It challenged me to become a student of the game again. And I think at that point in my life, I really needed that."

Two years later, de Jong and his Dutch teammates stood atop the podium at the Paris 2024 Olympics with gold medals around their necks.

Why This Inspires

At 38, de Jong could be coasting on his Olympic glory. Instead, he's pouring his energy back into the Bijlmer neighborhood that shaped him, working with young players and sharing his story openly.

His message is simple but powerful: "Make sure you're not the last to succeed." He wants kids growing up where he did to know that struggles don't define you, and it's never too late to find your way back to what you love.

De Jong credits his parents for his resilience. His father, who played at the highest level in Suriname, sparked his initial love for the sport. His mother drove him to every game and practice, becoming his biggest inspiration.

Now competing at the FIBA 3x3 World Cup in Warsaw, de Jong says silverware isn't what keeps him playing. He's here because 3x3 basketball gave him back the joy that depression tried to steal.

"I joined this sport because I lost the love for the game, and it gave it back," he said with his trademark smile. "I'm here to just enjoy it and have fun."

And at 38 years old, with Olympic gold around his neck and hope in his heart, Worthy de Jong is doing exactly that.