Novak Djokovic wishes an emotional ‘Happy Birthday’ to his late friend ‘Kobe Bryant’

Those who keep a close eye on basketball know what a legend Kobe Bryant was of the game. Tragically, though, Bryant died in a helicopter crash on 26th January this year. Basketball fraternity across the world mourned the passing away of one of the greats of basketball. There was one person from tennis who was really devastated after the sudden demise of Kobe Bryant & he is none other than World No.1 and 17-time Grand Slam champion – Novak Djokovic.

On Bryant’s 42nd birthday on 23 August, Djokovic posted a heartfelt message on his Twitter handle. The image depicts the Serb standing with Kobe Bryant beside him, always having his back, whether the situation is good or bad. He also used the hashtag of ‘Mamba Forever’, referring to the nickname of Bryant ‘Black Mamba”.

People who are unaware, Djokovic and Bryant were close and dear friends. On numerous occasions, Djokovic has credited his success in tennis to the basketball champ. When Bryant passed away, the 33-year-old Serb was in Melbourne playing in the Australian Open. The very next match he played after Kobe’s untimely death, he came out on the court wearing Bryant’s ‘KB24’ jacket. He wore it again during the trophy ceremony six days later.

Djokovic looked shell-shocked in his on-court interview with John McEnroe after winning his first match since the tragedy happened. “When I needed some support, he (Kobe) was there for me. He was my mentor, my friend. It’s just heartbreaking to hear that tragic news,” an emotional Djokovic said, while it was being difficult for him to hold back his tears.

The admiration has never been from one side only. Kobe Bryant also declared publicly that Djokovic is his favourite tennis player. Such friendships are really rare to see. We should hope that Kobe Bryant from heaven would be happy after his friend wished him on his birthday!

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