Djokovic, Nadal Among Players Leading Japan Relief Effort

© Sony Ericsson Open

Responding to the tragic events unfolding in Japan, new World No. 2 Novak Djokovic will lead a team of ATP World Tour men’s stars in an exhibition soccer match against the Fort Lauderdale Strikers, a professional soccer team, to raise money for the disaster in Japan. Djokovic's concern for Japan hits close to home as his fellow tour player, Japan’s Kei Nishikori, has many friends and family affected.

“I am very concerned for the people of Japan and think it is only right that we do whatever we can to help those in need," Djokovic said. "I would love to see all of Miami support both events by showing up Wednesday, March 23rd at the Ransom Everglades High School soccer field at 7:00 pm to cheer on your favorite team and attending the dinner afterward." Just off his win at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, Djokovic is making his way to Miami to start his fundraising efforts

In town for the Sony Ericsson Open, Djokovic's team will consist of ATP World Tour stars Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray, David Ferrer and many others. The match against the Ft. Lauderdale Strikers will take place at Ransom Everglades High School (3575 Main Highway), a couple miles south of the tournament in Coconut Grove at 7:00 pm. A dinner and auction will follow the soccer match at an undisclosed Miami location. Further information will be forthcoming.

Athletic Director at Ransom Everglades, Claude Grubair said, “Ransom Everglades is committed to community service in all respects. The fact that we can collaborate with such a caring group of people for such an important cause allows us to live the mission of our school.”  

For information regarding the soccer match, please visit SonyEricssonOpen.com. The dinner event is being organized by GR8 Miami event planning and tickets to the event can be had by visiting www.GR8Miami.com.

Confirmed ATP Players
Novak Djokovic
Kei Nishikori
Rafael Nadal
Andy Murray
Fernando Verdasco
Richard Gasquet
Feliciano Lopez
Viktor Troicki
Marcos Baghdatis
David Ferrer
Jurgen Melzer