How Kobe Bryant inspired Jessica Pegula to think differently about her tennis career | US Open 2024 storylines

The 2024 US Open semifinalist Jessica Pegula has opened up about the vast impact basketball legend Kobe Bryant had on her as an athlete. While Pegula wasn't the biggest basketball fan, Bryant stood out from the sport and inspired her to keep fighting.

The five-time NBA champion and his Mamba Mentality deeply inspired Pegula in her outlook on tennis. His mentality resonates around a relentless pursuit of excellence and the ability to push their spirit to its limits. Talking to Tennis.com recently, Pegula said:

"Kobe's journey was the entire dream for him. His mindset of being the best version of yourself daily spoke true to me, and it's how I approach my career."

Jessica Pegula often shares Bryant's famous quotes through her social media, which have motivated her throughout her career while facing adversity and bouncing back.

Evidently, Pegula's grit was visible in the 2024 US Open as the home favorite defeated World No.1 Iga Swiatek in straight sets to make her way into her first-ever appearance in a Major Slam. Notably, this came after her six Grand Slam quarterfinal defeats. About her influence on the younger generation, she added:

"He was always one of my biggest inspirations. Kobe always said if you're not giving back to the next generation, what are you doing it for?"

This mantra continues to drive the World No. 6 as she aims to go all the way to the US Open final this season. She has yet to lose a set in her campaign at Flushing Meadows, making her one of the favorites to lift the trophy.

Jessica Pegula plays her part in giving back to her community and inspiring young tennis players

U.S. Open 2024 - Day 10 - Source: Getty

Jessica Pegula was at Manhattan's 135th Street for a hitting session with local kids and her tourmates, Danielle Collins and Judy Murray. Children wore the t-shirts displaying 'Come Play', with the motive to benefit the Harlem Junior Tennis & Education Program.

While Pegula had a busy schedule with media requests, including her shoot for Netflix's Break Point, she reached around 11 AM, fulfilling all requests before eventually wanting to play some tennis and enjoy herself with the kids. Looking back at the event, she said:

“I just love playing games with them and having fun on the court. That’s what it’s all about. It’s important to keep growing the game and giving these kids an opportunity to have a tennis racquet in their hand and fall in love with the sport."

Pegula is also on the board of directors at the Asian American Pacific Islander Tennis Association. She further talked at the event about how it was essential to the game that everyone who could fall in love with the sport gets an opportunity. She also stated that even if a few girls could develop a drive and inspiration for the sport, it would be a dream scenario for her.