The reasons Kobe Bryant inspired Novak Djokovic to continue playing tennis.

The reasons Kobe Bryant inspired Novak Djokovic to continue playing tennis. World No. 1 Novak Djokovic stated that when he “needed it the most,” the late Kobe Bryant provided him with support.

When the veteran was “mentally” not at his best, he added that the former basketball player encouraged him to keep playing tennis.

After undergoing elbow surgery in 2018, Djokovic, who now holds the record for the most Grand Slam singles championships, stated he was finding it difficult to handle the demands of playing tennis.

Djokovic claimed that Bryant helped him escape the turbulent situation and offered advise. Djokovic is scheduled to defend his Australian Open title in 2019.

“Kobe has always been there for me when I needed him. I wasn’t feeling good mentally when I underwent elbow surgery. I even thought about giving up tennis. Djokovic was cited as saying on L’Equipe, “He gave me advice, shared his experience, and encouraged me.”

After undergoing treatment on the court during the Australian Open, Djokovic lost to unseeded South Korean Chung Hyeon in the Round of 16 six years prior.

Over the previous six years, Djokovic has progressed steadily. After winning the French Open, he defeated Rafael Nadal of Spain last year. After that, he was defeated in five sets by the teenage Carlos Alcaraz in the Wimbledon final.