Novak Djokovic Reveals Kobe Bryant Mentored Him During His Comeback

KEY POINTS

16-time Grand Slam Winner shares that Kobe Bryant served as a mentor for him
Kobe Bryant gave Novak Djokovic advice when he was recovering from his elbow injury in 2017
Novak Djokovic continues his Australian Open campaign as he's made it to the quarterfinals

The news of 41-year-old NBA legend Kobe Bryant and his 13-year-old daughter Gianna passing away shocked the entire world. He has touched numerous lives with how he sees the sport and the competitive value he upholds.

This is evident in his famed Mamba Mentality approach to basketball. But this mindset is applicable beyond the hardcourt. It also applies to other sports and life in general – where working hard, pushing oneself, and striving to be elite is the main goal. This included the tennis community in which Kobe Bryant has had a strong influence on.

Novak Djokovic shared just a few days before the horrible crash that Kobe Bryant has served as a mentor to him beyond the court. The Serbian was having one of the most stellar stretches of his career when he won four consecutive Grand Slams – from Wimbledon 2015 to Roland Garros 2016.

But with a series of setbacks and an elbow injury, he saw himself fall into a slump. In 2017 he had a change in his coaching team, surgery and a year of rehabilitation. Throughout the difficulties he’s had, it was Kobe Bryant who provided the former World Number One the words to persevere.

In a recent Australian Open interview, the 16-time Grand Slam champion said that Kobe Bryant was there for him during his struggles. He adds that he likens himself as a student whenever he gets advice from Kobe Bryant. “I’m very grateful to him for being there for me, for being very supportive. I love Kobe, who doesn’t, he’s an amazing guy and one of the best basketball players and athletes of all time,” he said.

This was just Friday - Novak Djokovic talks about being mentored by Kobe Bryant pic.twitter.com/u0JMKMAtHC
— CJ Fogler (@cjzer0) January 26, 2020

Almost forgot. Me and Djokovic right before team mtg pre game! #differentanimalsamebeast pic.twitter.com/cLW6sMsZBG
— Kobe Bryant (@kobebryant) March 4, 2013

Their relationship shows that Kobe Bryant is more than just a basketball great. The 18-time All-Star has positively affected even the greats beyond his sport – an indicator of the Mamba Mentality’s success.

Novak Djokovic is currently competing in the Australian Open and breezed through his fourth-round matchup against Diego Schwartzman in three sets, 6-3, 6-4, 6-4. He’s set to compete in the quarterfinals against Milos Raonic.