E-Paper
Nadal, Djokovic step up for Japan relief
World number one Rafael Nadal and second-ranked Novak Djokovic will lead a set of tennis stars in a charity football match to raise money for earthquake and tsunami relief missions in Japan.
World number one Rafael Nadal and second-ranked Novak Djokovic will lead a set of tennis stars in a charity football match to raise money for earthquake and tsunami relief missions in Japan.
Britain's Andy Murray and Japan's Kei Nishikori will also be among those who drop their rackets and compete with their feet ahead of their opening matches in a $9 million ATP and WTA hardcourt event.
The tennis stars will face the Fort Lauderdale Strikers, a second-level US pro squad, at Ransom Everglades High School with a dinner afterward. Proceeds will be donated to the American Red Cross relief effort in Japan.
"I'm 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."
Nadal gained revenge over Djokovic in an exhibition match in Bogota, Colombia, just over 24 hours after they contested the Indian Wells final.
The World No. 1 defeated Djokovic 7-6(5), 6-3 at the Coliseo El Campin in Bogota on Monday.
