Kobe Bryant death: Nick Kyrgios flaunts legend's No.8 jersey before Rafael Nadal clash

World .26 Nick Kyrgios paid an emotional tribute to NBA star Kobe Bryant ahe of his Australian Open fourth round clash against Rafael Nal on Monday. legendary Lakers star passed away in a helicopter crash near Calabasas, California along with his 13-year old daughter Gianna on Sunday. Australian tennis star donned Kobe Bryant’s fabled .8 jersey while warming up before clash.

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Kobe Bryant death: Nick Kyrgios pays tribute to NBA legend

Kobe Bryant and his 13-year old daughter Gianna were among nine victims who died in a chopper crash on Sunday.  A video was played at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne to pay tribute to five-time NBA Winner and one of greatest players in basketball history ahe of match between Rafael Nal and Nick Kyrgios. Kyrgios walked out wearing a #8 yellow Lakers jersey of Kobe Bryant and was teary-eyed as he sat on bench on side of court.

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Rafael Nal offers condolences after Kobe Bryant's death ahe of Nick Kyrgios clash

World .1 Rafael Nal h earlier sent out a heartfelt tribute to Kobe Bryant when he learned of s news. Spanish star expressed his shock and offered his condolences to Bryant’s wife on Twitter. Rafael Nal and Nick Kyrgios are facing each or for 8th time in ir careers at Australian Open with Spaniard leing he-to-he 4-3. However, Nick Kyrgios les ir he-to-he on hard courts. In last encounter between two rivals, Rafael Nal prevailed with a four-set victory at 2019 Wimbledon Championships.

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