Marvel's Black Panther [1] isn't just having a moment — it's a full-blown pop culture phenomenon [2] to be remembered for years to come. In less than a month following its release, the movie has broken several box office records [3], already surpassing the $1 billion mark. Beyond that, Black Panther has inspired viewers and given black children a superhero they can relate and look up to.
It should be no surprise then, that the exciting action movie has also inspired athletes of all backgrounds and sports. This past month, as Slate pointed out, several black athletes have been using the "Wakanda Forever" salute [4] to celebrate victories or simply demonstrate confidence.
The empowering salute has so far been used by everyone from NBA players to tennis athletes and even soccer stars. Ahead, learn more about the trending gesture and the athletes who have demonstrated it.
Victor Oladipo
The basketball player for the Indiana Pacers met Black Panther [6]'s Chadwick Boseman and Michael B. Jordan at the annual NBA Slam Dunk Contest in Los Angeles on Feb. 17. Before showing off his slam dunk, Oladipo threw on the superhero's mask and shared this sweet moment with the Black Panther himself.
Gaël Monfils
The French tennis player celebrated a win during the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, California on March 11. On the movie's significance [10], Monfils told reporters, "It's great for the community, for our community, it means quite a lot." He confirmed that the salute was "definitely a shout-out saying I'm supporting the Black Panther [11]'s community."
Sachia Vickery
Sachia Vickery also demonstrated the salute during the BNP Paribas Open after winning a match on March 9. "That was definitely Wakanda Forever," the tennis player told WTA Insider [12]. "I'm so obsessed with the movie. It's taking over my life. I have seen it four times already. Literally, I'm obsessed. I have watched it twice here. I may just keep watching it because it's been working out so well for me."