US Open 2023: Novak Djokovic honours Kobe Bryant after 24th major title
Novak Djokovic said Kobe Bryant, who died in a helicopter crash in 2020, had helped him through some of the most challenging times of his career
Novak Djokovic paid tribute to late NBA legend Kobe Bryant after he won his record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title at the US Open. The Serb changed from his blue T-shirt into a shirt that said "Mamba Forever" during the trophy presentation.
Djokovic beat Russia's Daniil Medvedev 6-3, 7-6 (7/5), 6-3 to clinch his fourth US Open crown. In the process, Djokovic exacted revenge on Medvedev for his loss two years ago at this venue.
Afterwards, Djokovic revealed a T-shirt with an image of him alongside Bryant -- whose nickname was "Mamba". On the back was 24, the number worn by the Los Angeles Lakers icon during his NBA career.
Djokovic said Bryant, who died in a helicopter crash in 2020, had helped him through some of the most challenging times of his career -- notably a career-threatening elbow injury in 2017.
More from Tennis News"I thought about doing this t-shirt a few days ago," said Djokovic.
"I didn't share it with anybody. Kobe was a close friend of mine, we chatted a lot, about the winner's mentality.
"When I was struggling with injury and trying to work my way back to the top he was one of the people I relied on the most he was always there for support in the most friendly way.
"His passing hurt me deeply and 24 is the jersey he wore at Lakers so I thought it would be nice to acknowledge him."
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