Kobe Bryant was a legend of the NBA and an inspiration to several aspiring basketball players around the world. He was a figure who inspired athletes from other sports as well. Novak Djokovic was one of his fans. Bryant also helped the Serbian when he was at a low point in his life which sealed their bond. After his historic US Open win, Djokovic shared a tribute to the Black Mamba. He recently revealed in a podcast why he decided to do so after his victory.

To tribute to the late Los Angeles Lakers star and his close friend, the Djoker wore a t-shirt that praised the NBA legend. Next to the win, this gesture became the biggest highlight of the match. The Djoker reveals why he decided to wear such apparel recently.

Novak Djokovic on tribute to Kobe Bryant

The Djoker once again created history when he beat Daniil Medvedev to win his 24th slam. He celebrated the victory by remembering his friend and the late LA Lakers star, Kobe Bryant. The gesture was loved by the audience, and the Djoker recently revealed why he decided to pay his respects to Bryant, who passed away in 2020.

He recalled his bond with the Black Mamba and talked about how he supported him. “Well, him and I were close. And, you know, he was extremely supportive and very kind and generous to me. When I was down and had to undergo the surgery about six years ago and trying to work my way up. I had a lot of doubts, you know, mental challenges, and he was there for me.”

Djokovic also recalled the conversations the two had about being athletes. “We had numerous conversations about the mentality what you know, he was guiding me through the process, and I couldn’t be more thankful to him and everything that he has done for me, but also for athletes around the world. His legacy lives forever.”

The news of his death broke his heart and said that the 24th slam felt appropriate for the homage. “Obviously, you know, it broke my heart when I heard the news three years ago and, but you know, his spirit was there last night. 24 is the jersey that he wore when he became a legend of the world basketball and Lakers. And I felt it was appropriate. With the 24th Slam“.

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His gesture came after his win which went on to capture all the fans sitting in the Arthur Ashe Stadium.

The bond between Bryant and the Djoker

The two personalities had been quite close for a long time before Bryant’s tragic death. After his quarterfinal win in the 2020 Australian Open, Djokovic gave a speech where he was unable to hold back his tears. Just days before, Bryant had passed, and the Djoker was unable to keep himself together as he talked about him and his daughter, paying his respects to his mentor and friend.

He said, “He was my mentor, my friend. It’s heartbreaking to see & to hear what’s happened to him and his daughter. I don’t know what to say, caught us by surprise. He inspired many people from around the world. When I needed support, he was there for me.”

Three years after the unfortunate incident, Djokovic was finally able to pay his due respects in the best way possible. Now, he will continue to carry him in his heart as he continues his ATP career.

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