Home

Tennis

When NBA Legend Kobe Bryant Declared Roger Federer ‘GOAT’ After Epic Australian Open Victory

Published 01/21/2021, 1:00 AM EST

Follow Us

via Getty

The Swiss maestro Roger Federer has had even the greatest athletes from other sports on his side. Of these, the late American basketball legend Kobe Bryant was also a Federer fan. And two years ago, the Los Angles Laker’s shooting guard had tweeted to show his standpoint.

Both great leaders of their sport, these two sportsmen became an example for their fellow athletes. However, it was from each other that they drew inspiration.

At the 2019 US Open, the 5-time NBA champion had come to watch Federer play Dan Evans. But that’s not all; Bryant even came forward to do the ceremonious coin toss.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Comfortably enough, the then 38-year-old won the match. It was a 6-2, 6-2, and 6-1 dominance over the British No. 1.

via Getty

But even before watching Federer play in New York, Bryant knew that the Basel-born player was the best. He had tweeted right after Roger picked up his 20 Grand Slam at the 2018 Australian Open title.

Kobe wrote, “Simple. Roger Federer = [GOAT emoji]” By winning a major tournament at that age, Federer made everything seem possible.

“Maybe Roger Federer Will Retire”: David Goffin, Matteo Berrettini and Others Make Bold Predictions for 2021

Roger Federer will not play the Australian Open 2021

2020 will have an everlasting effect on many lives. However, even before the pandemic outbreak came about, a tragedy took place with the American basketball champion.

In a devastating helicopter crash, both Kobe and his daughter lost their lives. This incident caused a sudden numbness all around the globe.

Trending

Get instantly notified of the hottest Tennis stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

While many great names held the highest regard for Kobe, tennis players wore his initials or jersey as a tribute. World No. 1 Novak Djokovic, who was friends with him, cried in a match interview.

via Getty

Even Federer was taken aback after hearing what had happened. At first, he didn’t even believe the news. “I’ve always been a big basketball fan, and as such you love Kobe anyway,” Federer said.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

The athletes who present their greatest selves on the court become immortal through the game. And Bryant will definitely hold a place in the heart and minds of many.

For Federer, the 2021 season did not begin as expected. But the 39-year-old continues to train and will return to tennis after the Australian Open 2021.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Will Roger take his GOAT status further?

Tournament Director Optimistic About Roger Federer’s Participation at ATP Rotterdam 2021

SHARE THIS ARTICLE :

Written by:

Purav Joshi

1,357Articles

One take at a time

Purav Joshi is a Tennis author at EssentiallySports. Having a degree in Films, Television and Media Production, he guided his passion for writing and journalism into the sport of aces and rallies. With over 2 years of experience as a copywriter, Purav has authored over 500 tennis articles.
Show More>