“A Life Lesson”: Nick Kyrgios Recollects Why Kobe Bryant Loved Tennis

Australian professional tennis player Nick Kyrgios has earned quite a big name in the sport. Even though he has not played much tennis in the last two years, he continues to be a popular figure among tennis fans. Kyrgios is famous for his charismatic personality and unorthodox shots on the court.

Those who know Nick Kyrgios are aware of his passion for basketball. He is an NBA fanatic who loves to watch and even play the sport whenever he gets some free time. Like many other basketball fans, Kobe Bryant is a huge inspiration for the Australian.

Nick Kyrgios recalls Kobe Bryant’s views on tennis

In a recent podcast, Kyrgios remembered one of the interviews of the NBA legend Kobe Bryant. He stated that in that interview, Kobe highlighted that tennis is a big life lesson as it teaches one a lot of responsibilities and makes them an independent person.

Lakers guard Kobe Bryant receives the NBA Most Valuable Player trophy from comissioner David Stern prior to game two of the Western Conference semifinal at Staples Center. (Photo by Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

They were discussing the immense amount of travel and coaching that players have to undertake from a young age. “That’s what Kobe said in his interview. He said that tennis is like a life lesson. You have to have so much independence and responsibility from so young,” said Kyrgios in the podcast.

It was a heartbreaking moment for the entire sports fraternity when Kobe Bryant lost his life in a tragic accident in January 2020. Back then, Kyrgios even wore Kobe’s jersey to pay tribute to him before playing his match at the Australian Open 2020.

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Kyrgios reveals why Kobe used to love tennis

In the same podcast, Kyrgios claimed that Kobe believed that one can learn a number of life skills from tennis and thus, he used to admire the sport. He also personally feels that in tennis, unlike many other team sports, one is out there on his own.

Aug 9, 2021; Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Nick Kyrgios of Australia goes to return a ball to Reilly Opelka of the United States (not pictured) at Aviva Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

“It’s like you learn so many life skills from it. That’s why he loved it. You are out there on your own,” added the 26-year-old player.

Nick Kyrgios’ return to the court is uncertain right now. He last played at the Laver Cup 2021 and by all accounts, has already ended his 2021 season. What will 2022 look like for the Australian?

Also Read: “Another Level”: Nick Kyrgios Lauds Jannik Sinner After Spectacular Record

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