The great Kobe Bryant was, is, and always will be one of the greatest sports athletes. He inspired not only basketball players, but people from an array of fields. The legendary superstar showed what it takes to be a champion on and off the court. Well over a year since his passing, the void of his absence has not yet been filled. On a special day of his, one of the biggest names in tennis – Novak Djokovic, and 12-time major winner Billie Jean King remembered the maverick.

Kobe Bryant celebrates what would’ve been his 43rd birthday today, on the 23rd of August. Apart from his skill set on the basketball court, the Lakers star has been a close companion to so many people in the tennis world. Remembering the American legend, many current and former players took to social media to recall the great man. It was the bare minimum they could do in remembrance of an angelic soul lost too soon.

READ MORE: ?Someone Who Shares the Same Goals?: Elina Svitolina Shares How Relationship With Gael Monfils is Paying-Off

Novak Djokovic, Billie Jean King lead birthday wishes for Kobe Bryant

On the late Kobe’s 43rd birthday and just the second one after his passing, wishes poured in from all over the world. All the top celebrities from different fields paid their respects to the ‘Mamba’. World No.1 Novak Djokovic led the wishes in the world of tennis. Self-admittedly a person who had the utmost love and respect for the 5-time NBA champion, Djokovic said, “Happy birthday, Kobe. Miss you brother.”

Aside from the 20-time major winner, the great Billie Jean King also took to social media to reminisce the happy memories that the Philadelphia-born star left behind. She shared a picture of herself with Kobe and wrote, “Kobe Bryant would have turned 43 today. Thinking of his family and friends, and hoping that happy memories prevail on what will be an emotional day for them.”?

It was the perfect tribute to remember one of the most astounding gentleman in the history of sport. The great Kobe Bryant’s legacy lives on with us forever. He is gone, but never forgotten. Mamba forever!