Naomi Osaka, a tennis star from Japan, has had an incredible rise to prominence. The 24-year-old already has the kind of career-long success that most people only dream about. During her formative years, Osaka benefited from the mentorship of some of the world’s top athletes.

She has always looked up to Serena Williams as an inspiration to pursue tennis. However, she also admires the late Kobe Bryant and has referred to him as a mentor on multiple occasions. Recently, Naomi Osaka revealed how helpful NBA legend Kobe Bryant was and the kind of support she got from him.

Naomi Osaka on Kobe Bryant and the immense support

During one of her interviews, Naomi Osaka was asked about her bond with Kobe Bryant. Osaka went on to describe the kind of personality Kobe Bryant was and said, ?I would say he was like the older brother/uncle that I wish I always had. He was someone that, no matter how busy he was, for some reason, he always picked up the phone when I called him.??

The Japanese star further stated that ?And I remember once, after the [2019] U.S. Open, I called him after one of my matches and he was just hanging out with his youngest daughter. He?s someone that gave me advice.?

Osaka?s poor vein of form continues

Naomi Osaka has a lot riding on her in terms of performance on the court. However, the Japanese player hasn’t been able to live up to her expectation and struggling with her form as of late. Osaka’s appearance hasn’t been the same since her shocking withdrawal from last year’s French Open.

READ MORE: ?Hopefully, Whatever I Do- He?d Be Proud?- Naomi Osaka Reflects on Kobe Bryant

The four-time Grand Slam champion has had a lot of trouble with injuries, which has only made things worse. Due to an Achilles injury, she was unable to play at Wimbledon this year after an unexpected early exit from the French Open. She then again made a comeback but again failed to make an impression during the American hard court swing.

WATCH THE STORY: When Serena Williams extended a hand to a struggling Naomi Osaka

Talking about her recent performances, she went down to Australia?s Danielle Collins in straight sets in the recently concluded US Open. Osaka has tremendous potential and a long career ahead of her, so she will be eager to overcome the difficulties she is currently facing and return to form.