In Kobe Bryant, the world lost one of its most precious gems. The ace basketball player has been one of the most respected and loved sportspersons across the world. He was, truly, a global icon and his death has shocked fans across the world.
Understandably, tributes came in from across the world for Bryant, with celebrities and sportspersons giving eulogies.
Here are a few:
Former POTUS Barack Obama shared a touching message for Kobe and his family.
Kobe was a legend on the court and just getting started in what would have been just as meaningful a second act. To lose Gianna is even more heartbreaking to us as parents. Michelle and I send love and prayers to Vanessa and the entire Bryant family on an unthinkable day.
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) January 26, 2020
Kobe’s Lakers teammate, Shaquille O’Neal, with whom Kobe shared a tumultuous relationship broke down at the news.
Kobe was so much more than an athlete, he was a family man. That was what we had most in common. I would hug his children like they were my own and he would embrace my kids like they were his. His baby girl Gigi was born on the same day as my youngest daughter Me’Arah. pic.twitter.com/BHBPN5Wq8V
— SHAQ (@SHAQ) January 26, 2020
Here is writer Paulo Coelho sharing a personal message.
You were more than a great player, dear Kobe Bryant. I learned a lot by interacting with you. Will delete the draft right now, this book has lost its reason pic.twitter.com/pZWyT8xObw
— Paulo Coelho (@paulocoelho) January 26, 2020
Ace tennis player Novak Djokovic tweeted how he considered Kobe a mentor.
My heart truly mourns over the news today. Kobe was a great mentor and friend to me. You and your daughter will live forever in our hearts. There are not enough words to express my deepest sympathies to the Bryants and every family suffering from this tragedy. RIP my friend pic.twitter.com/VRmgaOaITT
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) January 27, 2020
Actor Leonardo DiCaprio paid his tributes, calling Kobe a legend.
Kobe was truly larger than life, a legend. May he and all those who lost their lives today rest in peace. Love and condolences to his family. LA will never be the same.
— Leonardo DiCaprio (@LeoDiCaprio) January 26, 2020
Talk show host Ellen DeGeneres shared a heartwarming message by remembering his visits to the show.
Kobe Bryant was someone who was always there when we wanted to help someone in need. For that, I will be forever grateful. https://t.co/KidJrfy0wt
— Ellen DeGeneres (@TheEllenShow) January 28, 2020
Here is talk show host Jimmy Kimmel remembering him…
He was great,charismatic & among the hardest-working athletes ever,but what impressed me most was how deeply-involved Kobe was with his 4 daughters. Pray for them, Vanessa, his parents & his fellow passengers’ families on this sad and shocking day. We will never forget you Kobe
— Jimmy Kimmel (@jimmykimmel) January 26, 2020
Indian cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar shared a message for his family.
Saddened to hear about the tragic demise of Kobe Bryant, his daughter Gianna & others on-board the helicopter.
My condolences to his family, friends and fans across the world. #KobeBryant pic.twitter.com/N8B4Tcr4KU— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) January 27, 2020
Really, this man did have a huge impact on people across the world. His legacy will live on forever!
