Golden State Warriors center Kristaps Porziņģis said Wednesday he does not have HIV or AIDS, addressing persistent social media speculation as he continues to recover from an undisclosed health issue that has kept him out of training camp and preseason.
In a post on X, the 31-year-old Latvian said he is working with doctors and specialists and is “getting better and better,” while asking for patience. He added that dealing with health issues that have been difficult to pinpoint, on top of injuries throughout his career, has been frustrating, but that he expects to feel well again soon.
In a follow-up post, Porziņģis wrote: “I appreciate all the internet doctors trying to diagnose and help, but I’m in the best hands. So everyone can relax now … and I don’t have hiv or aids.”
The Warriors announced Wednesday that Porziņģis will remain out indefinitely due to the same health-related matter that has sidelined him but will be around the team. He visited the practice facility Tuesday and met with director of sports medicine and performance Rick Celebrini and general manager Mike Dunleavy, according to ESPN’s Anthony Slater. Coach Steve Kerr has said there is no clear timetable for a return, and the team has provided few specifics on the condition.
Hello people, I'm working with doctors and experts to figure out how to be fully back to good health asap. Honestly, I'm getting better and better. I just have to stay patient, and I believe I'll be feeling great again soon.
It has definitely been frustrating dealing with some…
— Kristaps Porzingis (@kporzee) October 14, 2026
Porziņģis, who signed a two-year extension with Golden State this past offseason, has dealt with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) at points over the past two seasons. The autonomic condition, which can cause a rapid heart rate upon standing, fatigue and dizziness, was diagnosed after a viral illness during his time with the Boston Celtics. It is unclear whether his current absence is related to that diagnosis. He appeared in only 15 games after being acquired from the Atlanta Hawks at last season’s trade deadline.
Unsubstantiated claims linking Porziņģis to HIV or AIDS have circulated on social media for more than a year, often tied to periods of fatigue, weight fluctuations or limited playing time. No credible NBA reporting or team statements have supported those claims. Outlets including Outsports have previously noted that the rumors lack any factual basis and reflect ongoing stigma around HIV.
Porziņģis, a former All-Star known for his size and perimeter skill, has a long injury history that includes multiple lower-body issues. The Warriors open the regular season Oct. 21 against the Los Angeles Lakers.
