Sports · 3 hours ago

Novak Djokovic inspired by Kobe Bryant to play for fans

Andymiah via Wikimedia Commons (CC-BY-SA-4.0)

Tennis champion Novak Djokovic revealed a message from the late Kobe Bryant still inspires his approach on court. After winning his record seventh China Open title on Tuesday, Djokovic explained Bryant's view that he should always play because fans might be seeing him for the only time. The 39-year-old said this helps him manage the pressures of being a star player.

By BriefTea Editorial · 8 October 2026 at 5:47

Reported by Yahoo Sports · How we write briefs

Get the app

Understand this story

Who is Novak Djokovic?

More briefs

SportsManchester City rely on team's fighting spirit for Liverpool match SportsPalmer missed England's Nations League games after withdrawal, Tuchel questions commitment SportsNovak Djokovic wins China Open, believes he can still compete at top level SportsArsenal boss Mikel Arteta signs new contract until June 2030 SportsAhmedabad 2036? India Pitches Its 'Rising Together' Olympic Dream SportsScotland's football team loses to Slovenia, damaging Euros qualification hopes More sports stories → Browse all stories →