On a show called Uninterrupted, Naomi Osaka opened up about her long time role model Kobe Bryant. Osaka opened up about her friendship with Bryant and how he acted as a mentor for her as she navigated life in the spotlight. The Lakers legend is an inspiration for many fans and athletes across the world.

Naomi Osaka considered Kobe Bryant her role model

Naomi Osaka has talked about her relationship with Kobe Bryant on several occasions. The Japanese player has always expressed her love for Bryant. In a recent interview with Uninterrupted, Osaka said, “I was really lucky to have Kobe as my mentor and I really love like everything that he passed down to me so I always feel like if there was a younger player that ever needed any advise from me, I would love to give it.”

Naomi Osaka was truly inspired by the legacy of Kobe Bryant. The four time Grand Slam champion also said that Kobe navigated her after she came under the lime light. She claimed Kobe helped her find the confidence back which she needed at the court to perform.

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Osaka continues her break

Recently. Naomi announced she will be withdrawing from BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells. The former US Open champion was knocked out in the third round of US Open 2021 by Leylah Fernandez of Canada. However, she has decided to continue her break and not participate at BNP Paribas Open. Th reason of the withdrawal is still unknown.

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