Ronaldo, Messi, Neymar pay tribute to basketball legend

The world has been shaken by the untimely demise of basketball legend Kobe Bryant who died in a helicopter crash today at the age of 41.

The former LA Lakers star was flying over California when a fire started and caused the helicopter to spiral and crash.

Reports say nobody on board the helicopter survived the crash. All five passengers died in the tragic accident, including his 13-year-old daughter Gianna.

In addition to his basketball achievements, Kobe was a massive football fan. The former Laker famously supported AC Milan while also participating in commercials alongside football stars like Ronaldinho and Lionel Messi.

The passing of the icon has left the sporting world in mourning, with many footballers and clubs expressing their grief.

The likes of Barcelona star Lionel Messi, Juventus attacker Cristiano Ronaldo, Argentina icon Diego Maradona and Manchester City attacker Sergio Aguero were among those who took to social media to pay tribute to the world-famous athlete.

Football stars from their personal Twitter and Instagram accounts have posted numerous tweets and pictures of Kobe, recalling the days they spent with the basketball legend. 

Paul Pogba posted a photo of Kobe on his Instagram profile with the caption "Heroes come and go. Legends are for ever ❤ R.i.P. Kobe and his daughter Gianna and all the victims my prayers to the families #blackmambaforever".

Cristiano Ronaldo posted a photo of Kobe from his official Twitter account, captioning it, "So sad to hear the heartbreaking news of the deaths of Kobe and his daughter Gianna. Kobe was a true legend and inspiration to so many. Sending my condolences to his family and friends and the families of all who lost their lives in the crash. RIP Legend?" 

Lionel Messi posted from his Instagram account a photo of Kobe with a caption in Spanish, which roughly translates to "I have no words ... All my love for Kobe's family and friends. It was a pleasure to meet you and share good times together. We were a genius like few others."

Ronaldinho Gaúcho tweeted a photo of the two of them together with the caption in Portugese, "Rest in peace, my friend".

Another post from the official Twitter of Machester City - a photo of Kobe with the caption, "Everyone at Manchester City is shocked and saddened to hear of the death of Kobe Bryant. He was a true sporting icon and transcended the sport of basketball. Our thoughts are with Kobe Bryant's friends, family and the entire Lakers organisation during this tragic time" paid tribute to Kobe.

Neymar from his Instagram tweeted, "Sad day for us in sports, for us fans and especially for family and kobe friends. A legend has been made with your hands, thank you for extolling the Kobe sport ... may God comfort the hearts of your family and friends ??? #ripkobebryant #24" with a photo of the deceased bastektball legend as tribute.