Rafael Nadal wears Lakers cap in honour of Kobe Bryant after defeating Nick Kyrgios

Paying tribute to former Lakers star and NBA great Kobe Bryant, Rafael Nal donned a Lakers' cap during his pre-quarterfinal clash with Australia's Nick Kyrgios at Australian Open on Monday. Spaniard came through with a 6-3, 3-6, 7-6, 7-6 win over Kyrgios. He'll w face Dominic Thiem in next round. Kobe Bryant died with his 13-year-old daughter Gianna and seven ors in a helicopter crash which happened on Sunday. It left entire world shocked.

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Australian Open: Rafael Nal wears Lakers cap in post-match interview

Ahe of start of match between Nick Kyrgios and Rafael Nal, a video was also played at Rod Laver Arena to pay tribute to Bryant. After win over Kyrgios, Rafael Nal was seen wearing a Lakers cap while speaking to John McEnroe in post-match interview. He reserved special praise for his Australian counterpart. Nal also labelled Kyrgios as one of 'highest talents' on tour and said that he likes Australian Open version of Nick Kyrgios.

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Australian Open: Nick Kyrgios flaunts Kobe Bryant's . 8 jersey

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. Australian tennis star donned Kobe Bryant’s fabled . 8 jersey while warming up before clash. Kyrgios walked out wearing a . 8 yellow Lakers jersey of Kobe Bryant. He was teary-eyed as he sat on bench outside court.

Kobe Bryant helicopter clash

Kobe Bryant and his 13-year-old daughter were among 9 people that were killed in crash that took place over weekend. Kobe Bryant, along with his daughter Gianna Bryant, was on his way to a youth basketball game when incident happened. helicopter crashed amidst foggy conditions and burst into flames. 

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