Novak Djokovic shares message of support for Turkey and Syria amid tragedy, lauds his country Serbia for contributing to rescue effort
Novak Djokovic extended condolences and shared a message of support for the people of Turkey and Syria, who have suffered massive tragedies owing to a series of earthquakes this week. The Serbian tennis great also lauded his country's government for sending in rescue teams to the affected nations as the death toll keeps rising amid the destruction.
A state of emergency has been declared as the death toll in Turkey and Syria approached 8,000 in the early hours of Wednesday. Four more earthquakes followed a massive first earthquake early Monday morning and the region continues to struggle from aftershocks. People are still being found deep under the rubble of collapsed buildings.
Reacting to the same, Djokovic expressed solidarity with the people affected by the devastating incident and shared a prayer for them.
"Lord, protect people and give them health," Novak Djokovic wrote on Instagram.
As international help has come to the aid of the region in huge numbers, Serbia has also contributed by sending in rescue teams to help save as many people as possible. Djokovic lauded his country's efforts.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion is known for his charitable work and donations towards important causes. He also showed his support for fellow tennis player Sergiy Stakhovsky and the people of Ukraine when the ongoing war began early last year.
Novak Djokovic offered financial aid to war-affected in Ukraine last year
Back in March last year, when the war between Russia and Ukraine first began, Novak Djokovic expressed concern for fellow player Sergiy Stakhovsky's well-being and also offered to help Ukraine by providing financial aid or help in another form. Stakhovksy shared a screenshot of the Serb's personal message, checking in on the former Ukrainian player and asking how he could help.
"Stako, how are you man? Are you on field? Thinking of you .. hoping all calms down soon. Please let me know what would be the best address to send help, financial help, any other help as well," the 35-year-old wrote.
The Serbian legend recently won his record-extending 10th Australian Open title and record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam singles title. He is currently recovering from a left hamstring injury and is expected to participate in the ATP Dubai Tennis Championships later this month.