United in this fight: Nadal, Djokovic extend generous COVID-19 pledges

Superstars Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic are among the latest set of tennis players to rally for the greater good, using their platform and resources to combat the coronavirus pandemic.

Nadal and Spanish basketball player Pau Gasol have launched an €11 million campaign to help 1,350,000 people affected by COVID-19. Both announced contributions and encouraged others to donate.

"The Spanish have never failed us athletes," Nadal said in a translated video he uploaded on Twitter. "Now we cannot fail you."

Spain is the second-most affected nation in Europe. Several Spanish athletes, like soccer player Iker Casillas, have joined in, along with Garbine Muguruza, Carla Suarez Navarro and former world No. 3 David Ferrer, who retired last season.

"All Spanish athletes are getting involved and each must contribute," said Muguruza.

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Djokovic is donating €1 million in Serbia to purchase hospital supplies and equipment. The 17-time major champion announced that he and his wife, Jelena, would provide the funds through their foundation.

The current No. 1, who opened his 2020 season with 18 consecutive victories before tournament action was postponed, said the couple "used our contacts with different companies from China and Europe" about acquiring ventilators, and would help organize the purchases.

"Not everyone can help, many are hit hard. Fortunately, there are many people and companies who can help," Djokovic said in a statement. "It is important to remain united in this fight, to help each other, so we can defeat this virus faster and easier. We would like to use this opportunity to invite everyone else to join us and help numerous families and people who need help to survive and get healthy again."

Fellow Big Three member Roger Federer previously announced he and wife Mirka were donating one million Swiss Francs to help families in Switzerland.