Indian Wells champion Novak Djokovic has gone immediately to South Florida to prepare for the Sony Ericsson Open, which begins Wednesday, and to join with fellow pro Kei Nishikori in orchestrating a fund-raising event for Wednesday night that benefits Japan earthquake/tsunami victims.
The event is being co-hosted by GR8 Miami, but won’t interrupt any top players, who have byes through the first round. Djokovic won’t play until Friday or Saturday.
Before an 8 p.m. dinner Wednesday night, Djokovic will join other ATP players in an exhibition soccer match against the Fort Lauderdale Strikers.
Following the dinner, GR8 is putting on an after-party silent auction with donations going to the American Red Cross Japan disaster relief efforts.
“Since we heard about the earthquake and all it’s consequences I wanted to do something to support the victims,” said Djokovic. “I have played last week with messages posted on my knee tape, but this is something different, since we want to raise money for the Red Cross to help people.
Tickets for the dinner can be purchased online at www.GR8Miami.com or by calling 415-225-5764 or 561-706-4276.