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Holden becomes first American to play for Russia
MOSCOW, Sept 13 (Reuters) - Jon Holden is about to make history by becoming the first American athlete in any sport to represent Russia in international competition.
"After I received my Russian passport everyone was wondering if I'll play, but I must admit it wasn't an easy decision to make," Holden told Reuters in an interview before leaving for Belgrade to compete in Euro 2005. "I took some time to think about it and talked to a lot of people. I've spoken with my family and friends and thought it was a good decision." The 1.84-metre guard, who has been playing for Russian champions CSKA Moscow for three years, has never played for the United States, making him eligible to represent his new country. "My family backed me up but the biggest thing was being welcomed by the team. As long as the team wanted me here I was going to play," he said. Holden still had to convince his parents back home that he was making the right choice. "I sat down with my parents because I wanted them to understand what I was doing," he said. "But they said they would support me whatever decision I was going to make." While he is honoured to play for Russia, Holden says he still feels American
inside. "I will always be an American. I lived there for most of my life and
will always be a U.S. citizen."
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