Gymnast Nastia Liukin took to Instagram to remember the late legend Kobe Bryant on the three-year anniversary of his death.
Kobe Bryant was a professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA until his sudden death in a helicopter crash on January 26, 2020. Although it has been three years since his death, the former Russian-American artistic gymnast said that he continues to inspire him “every day. “
Gymnast Nastia Liukin Thanked Kobe Bryant For ‘Continuing To Inspire Me Every Day’
Instagram | Nastia Liukin
In a touching Instagram tribute, the five-time Olympic medalist wrote, “Hard to believe it’s been three years today. I will remember every detail of that day. KB, you are greatly missed.”
“Thank you for continuing to inspire me every day. Thank you for continuing to make me want to be a better person every day,” he continued. “Thank you for continuing to teach me what unconditional love really means and that true ‘balance’ in life does not exist – unless you are balanced (that’s always one of my favorite things you tell me) Thank you for counting to inspire a whole generation to believe anything is possible.”
Instagram | Nastia Liukin
“Thank you for continuing to teach us all that we are not defined by one moment — whether success or failure. Thank you for counting to make me believe that I am WAY more than ‘the gymnast in the pink leotard’….” he continued. “Thank you for being my muse – and thank you for teaching me the importance of being your own muse.”
He closed his post, writing, “Thank you KB…. Here’s to all of us who live with the Mamba Mentality forever. Until then….” Many fans were quick to show their support for him in the comments, with many calling it “the saddest day in sports history” but affirming the idea that “his legacy will live on.”
Fans Remember Kobe Bryant And His Legacy Through ‘The Mamba Mentality’
Instagram | Nastia Liukin
“I’ve actually been listening to a motivational podcast lately and he’s on. I heard him mention his book The Mamba Mentality and I bought it for my daughter trying for the WNBA to read as well as myself. RIP,” one user commented, while another said that his death “still doesn’t seem real.”
“I totally agree with you on this and I’m grateful that KB still inspires me because it makes me believe that I can achieve my goals and make me a better mother for my child. Thank you KB I will always have a mamba mentality forever,” another follower commented while some users expressed shock that it has been three years since he passed away.
Instagram | Nastia Liukin
While many took time in the comments to remember Kobe, other fans were worried about the health of Nastia Liukin. He recently made headlines for pulling out of the Fox reality series “Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test” after his friend called him out for not completing a test where he had to hold his breath underwater for twenty seconds by himself.
Just a few days ago, she took to Instagram to share a video of her new outfit, which drew a lot of criticism. Although the 5’3” gymnast has always been petite, fans worry that she might be too thin.
Fans Express Concern Over Nastia’s Health Amid New Instagram Video
In a ten-second Instagram clip, the 33-year-old former athlete shared a video of herself getting dressed, starting with a black bra and plain high-waisted pants. She quickly added a strapless top to her look and pink heels with a bow on the front. While some fans loved the outfit, others felt that she looked too skinny.
“Not promoting a healthy body image for gymnasts or people in general. You’re getting thinner and thinner,” commented one user. “I think so too. Always thin, its natural state. But getting thinner is worrying,” another follower agreed.
Instagram | Nastia Liukin
“I hope the little gymnasts who look up to her don’t go down this slippery slope. The body checking, ‘clean’ eating and strict lifestyle she promotes in her current content is depressing and toxic to her young audience of athletes. It’s okay to struggle, but spread the message instead of spreading denial and promoting eating disorders,” shared another follower.
Even so, some are quick to draw a distinction between “expressing concern” and “body shaming.” One user commented, “This comment really pisses me off right now. 20lbs heavier and you all call her fat… now she’s too skinny. She can’t win can she? How about you worry about your own body and stop criticizing her body , since you haven’t even lived a day in his condition… or known him personally, for that matter!”
Instagram | Nastia Liukin
“Call it what it is. You are not ‘expressing concern…’ you are making a judgment. Let his family and close friends express their concerns if they feel there is cause for concern and keep your judgment to yourself,” they continued. “Nastia, I hope the nice comments stand out more than this rude one because you look amazing in this dress! Just like all the other looks you posted! Love it!”
Categories: Trending
Source: thtrangdai.edu.vn/en/
