Dirk Nowitzki is honored for his life's work in Berlin and then becomes very emotional on stage. The ex-basketball player wants more athletes to use their opportunities to do good.
Berlin (dpa) - Dirk Nowitzki's advice to the next generation of athletes was more than haunting.
"Try all sports, find what you really love. You won't get great if you don't do what you love. Live your dream," said the former basketball superstar on Monday evening in Berlin. The 41-year-old had just received his lifetime achievement award at the Laureus World Sports Awards. The Würzburg received the prize from boxing world champion Wladimir Klitschko almost a year after retiring from the Verti Music Hall.
Nowitzki then became emotional on stage in the heart of the capital. "I am proud of where my journey has taken me. Sport has taught me life lessons," said the former Dallas Mavericks professional, looking into the hall. There his wife Jessica nodded to him again and again in the audience with a smile on his face. Superstars such as Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton, who was honored with football icon Lionel Messi as Sportsman of the Year, listened attentively to every word from Nowitzki.
"Many people here in the room inspired me to be great," said Nowitzki, describing the award as "great honor" before glancing back in time: "I was lucky enough to grow up in a sports family. I am grew up in sports halls and loved every minute of it. " He still has not completely overcome his resignation in April 2019, the 2.13 meter tall Franke likes to think back on his career. The highlight was winning the title in the North American professional league NBA in 2011.
"I'm still at the stage where I am missing. But I think it will get better," said Nowitzki. The former German international also had an appeal for other athletes. "We athletes have a large platform," said Nowitzki. This had to be used to make a difference in society outside of sports halls, soccer fields or other arenas. Nowitzki named his old teammates Steve Nash and Michael Finley, who were a good example. "They showed me how to be great off the field."
His entire career was "a fun trip". Despite many hardships and countless training sessions. "We athletes are lucky enough to turn a hobby into a job and make a lot of money from it," said Nowitzki: "I love sport and know that I have touched many people around the world. I look back on my 21 years back in the NBA and I'm just happy. "
Nowitzki was "deeply sad" by the sudden death of Kobe Bryant, who was killed in a tragic helicopter crash near Los Angeles. "He stood for hard work and for never being satisfied," said Nowitzki of his long-time companion. "It was a difficult time for me."
Laureus World Sports Awards
