Behind the Spotlight of the World Cup, These Humanitarian Actions by World-Class Footballers Inspire Millions

During the World Cup, global attention is usually focused on matches, goals, and competition between teams. However, there is another side of football that is equally worth noting. Behind the spotlight of stadiums and achievements on the pitch, a number of world-class footballers have chosen to use their influence to help others.

What they have done shows that football is not only about victory. Beyond bringing people together through sport, football also encourages care for communities.

Here are several footballers known for their active involvement in social and humanitarian initiatives.

1. Cristiano Ronaldo

For Indonesians, Cristiano Ronaldo’s name has a story that feels quite close to Aceh. In 2005, he visited Aceh and met Martunis, a child who survived the 2004 Aceh tsunami. In addition, he helped encourage fundraising efforts and has been involved in various social campaigns focusing on children’s health and welfare.

2. Mohamed Salah

Mohamed Salah is not only known as one of Egypt’s best footballers, but also as someone who actively helps communities. Salah once donated around IDR 47.5 billion to support the National Cancer Institute in Cairo. In addition, he regularly channels part of his income through various social and humanitarian activities.

3. Lionel Messi

In 2007, Lionel Messi established the Leo Messi Foundation, which focuses on children’s education and health. Through the foundation, he supports various programs that help children gain access to education and healthcare services. These programs also reach communities in different countries.

4. Neymar Jr.

Neymar uses part of his income to support various community needs in Brazil. He has been involved in efforts to provide access to clean water and sanitation. In addition, he also supports activities related to education and health. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Neymar donated around IDR 14.5 billion to help respond to the health crisis in Brazil.

5. Michael Essien

The former Ghanaian midfielder established the Michael Essien Foundation to support health and education. Through the foundation, Essien helps various community groups in need of access to basic services. He also supported efforts to prevent the spread of Ebola in West Africa when the outbreak affected the region.

6. Mesut Özil

After the 2014 World Cup, Mesut Özil donated his earnings to help communities in need. He also helped cover the medical treatment costs of 11 children in Brazil with serious illnesses so they could receive the care they needed.

The stories of these players show that influence can be used to help others through education, healthcare services, and various social initiatives. At the same time, football teaches us that every victory is born from teamwork. The same spirit can be applied to humanitarian action. When more people move together, more communities can experience the benefits.

Just like footballers who use their influence to help others, everyone can take part in doing good according to their own capacity. Therefore, let us create more acts of kindness together with Human Initiative through solusipeduli.org.

Photo source: Kumparan.com