Novak Djokovic came back from 2-1 down to beat Dominic Thiem and collect his eighth Australian Open title after a thrilling five-set final.
The 6-4, 4-6, 2-6, 6-3, 6-4 win was the Serbian's 17th Grand-Slam title win and he began his post-match speech by congratulating his opponent.
"Congratulations to Dominic," the no.2 seed said clutching his trophy to his side.
"It wasn’t to be tonight but it was a tough match and you were very close to winning it. You definitely have a lot more time in your career I’m sure that you will get one of the Grand Slam trophies – more than one!"
"He was a mentor to me."
Djokovic remembers Kobe Bryant 🏀 pic.twitter.com/pyKi8IZaH2— Eurosport (@eurosport) February 2, 2020
Djokovic also referenced what he described as some "devastating things" that have marked the beginning of the new decade.
"The huge bushfires here in Australia, conflicts in some parts of the world, people dying every day. And, obviously, one person who I considered close in my life and like a mentor to me, Kobe Bryant passed away with his daughter.
"I would just like to say that this is a reminder to all of us that we should stick together more than ever, be with our families, stay close to the people who love you, who care about you.
"Obviously, we are part of professional sport, we compete and we try our best but, obviously, there are more important things in life and it is important to be conscious and humble of the things that are happening around you."
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