10 Sports Icons Dedicated To Charitable Causes

Eat Learn Play Foundation/Facebook

Athletes are often idolized for their physical prowess and achievements on the field, court, or track. But many superstars go beyond their sport, using resources to make a positive impact. These inspiring individuals are committed to giving back to their communities and the world through various charitable efforts. Here are ten athletes making a difference in their communities and the world. 

Cristiano Ronaldo (Soccer)

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This soccer legend is loved for his incredible talent on the field, but he’s also a huge philanthropist. Ronaldo is a global ambassador for Save the Children, UNICEF, and World Vision. He has donated millions to these organizations and countless others, including €1 million to tackle COVID-19 in his country, Portugal.

LeBron James (Basketball)

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The NBA’s all-time leading scorer isn’t just a dominant force in basketball; he’s also incredibly dedicated to giving back to his hometown of Akron, Ohio. With the LeBron James Family Foundation, he has offered scholarships, organized educational initiatives, and even opened a public school for underprivileged children.

Serena Williams (Tennis)

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Serena Williams has partnered with organizations like BELLA+CANVAS to donate masks to underprivileged schools during COVID-19. Her work extends beyond the US. As a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, Serena Williams has advocated for education in Africa and championed the #EveryChildAlive campaign to improve maternal and newborn health globally.

Russell Wilson (Football)

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The 2020 Walter Payton’s Man of the Year is a star quarterback known for generosity. Wilson and his wife, Ciara, founded the Why Not You Foundation, which focuses on instruction, poverty alleviation, and youth leadership. They have donated millions to various causes and continue to inspire others to give back.

Naomi Osaka (Tennis)

Swiss Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan/Facebook

In 2020, Naomi Osaka and her sister Mari collaborated with UNICEF to create a special edition charity face mask. Proceeds went towards UNICEF’s COVID-19 relief efforts. She donated $15,000 to Laureus Sport for Good, a charity that supports mental well-being advocacy. While she may not have a foundation, her activism has a positive impact.

Kevin Durant (Basketball)

Kevin Durant Fan Club/Facebook

This Phoenix Suns superstar is committed to giving back to his community. The Kevin Durant Charity Foundation works to support community development initiatives in Durant’s hometown of Seat Pleasant, Maryland. This foundation also provides resources and scholarships to students.

Marcus Rashford (Soccer)

Marcus Rashford/Facebook

In April 2020, Rashford raised £20m in partnership with FareShare to provide meals for three million people. In autumn 2020, he launched a petition asking the Government to extend free school meals into the winter months. The Manchester United player also campaigned for the British Government to provide free meals to underprivileged children during school holidays. 

Novak Djokovic (Tennis)

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Along with his wife, Jelena, Novak Djokovic founded the Novak Djokovic Foundation in 2007. It was aimed at transforming the world through investments in early childhood development. In collaboration with UNICEF, the foundation raises awareness about the low enrollment rates in preschool education in Serbia.

Simone Biles (Gymnastics)

Eurosport/Facebook

Simone Biles’ journey from a challenging childhood in foster care to becoming a powerhouse advocate for children within the foster care system is truly inspiring to many. She has partnered with Mattress Firm Foster Kids to raise awareness and support for foster families.

Stephen Curry (Basketball)

Eat Learn Play Foundation/Facebook

In 2019, Curry and his wife, Ayesha, founded the Eat. Learn. Play. Foundation to help children in underserved communities by providing access to nutritious food, quality education, and opportunities for physical activity. Curry also donated to organizations that support children’s health and social justice initiatives.

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