ATP World Tour Allstars Take on Fort Lauderdale Strikers To Raise Money For Japan
Thursday, March 24, 2011 at 9:36AM THIS is why I love this sport.
Recently there have been a number of devastating events that have happened around the world, from the earthquake in Haiti last year, to the floods in Queensland in early January; and every time something like this happens, tennis players from all over the world take notice and then collectively organize events to try and bring support to the affected areas. Yesterday was no different when many of the top players from the ATP played a charity soccer match against the Fort Lauderdale Strikers to raise money for Japan which has been devastated by an earthquake, tsunamis, and now is dealing with a nuclear crisis. The Allstars lost 5-2, but it was a lot of fun to watch, and should also remind us that we can all make a difference, no matter how small, to help those in need.
Here are some photos from the soccer/football match:
Kei Nishikori, Felicano Lopez and Novak Djokovic standing for the Japanese National Anthem.
Andy Murray scored one of the 2 goals for the ATP Allstars.
Whoops!
Marcos Baghdatis scored the other goal on a penalty kick.
Jo-Wilfried Tsonga looks a bit pained.
The Spanish Press called Feliciano Lopez the "Messi" of the team. I was impressed.
Hot and sweaty post-match.
On Friday, March 25, the WTA, ATP World Tour, Sony Ericsson Open and global tennis family will join forces to help raise money for Japan disaster relief. Prior to the start of Friday’s evening session, players from both the WTA and ATP World Tour will participate in an on-court presentation and walk through the stands on Stadium Court collecting donations. Money collected will go to the Red Cross.
Photos: Getty Images
