Andy Murray has pledged to donate £50 for every ace he hits in the rest of the tennis season to Unicef, to help children affected by the refugee crisis.
Murray, who dipped his toe into domestic politics when he backed Scottish independence last year, broke off from training for Great Britain’s Davis Cup semi-final against Australia in Glasgow, which starts on Friday, to announce his commitment to the cause.
“Having seen the images broadcast on the news in recent weeks I felt I had to do something to help the millions of children and their families who have been forced to flee their homes and had their lives turned upside down,” he said.
“I’ll get that little bit more satisfaction from each ace I hit knowing that it will be helping Unicef keep children safe. I’m also asking my fans across the world to join with me and support Unicef’s vital work. Together we can help make a safer world for every child.”
He said people who wanted to help could donate at his justgiving.com page.
The Unicef UK executive director, David Bull, said: “The conflict in Syria continues to have a devastating impact on the lives of children, both in the region and beyond. The fear, the lack of opportunity and loss of hope has forced thousands of families to make the dangerous journey to Europe.
“The support of Andy and his fans, and the wider tennis community can help us continue to provide support for children whenever and however disaster strikes.”
