Mesut Ozil’s popularity in his homeland appears to continue unabated after he won a public vote to be crowned German Football Ambassador.
The award, organised by the German Foreign Ministry in conjunction with Deutsche Welle and the Goethe Institute, is given to those with an ability to communicate and embody the best aspects of German football abroad.
Jurgen Klinsmann, coach of the United States international side, and ex-Aston Villa player Thomas Hitzelsperger, who shed a light on homosexuality in sport when he recently came out, were also crowned as German Football Ambassadors at the star-studded event held last night.
On collecting the award the Arsenal midfielder outlined how he intends to help disadvantaged children with the cash prize:
“In my job, I can really make a difference in a few ways. We are very privileged. People who know me will tell you: my goal is to help kids as much as possible. I like to spend time with them.
“I’ve already talked to my team of helpers, and we are going to use the money to help young burn victims in Africa. We’ve already set up a plan of how to do it.
“I have been planning for a while to start a charity. I have helped children before with projects. Because I now have a good network I can help a lot more of them, faster.
“That’s why I planned this organisation. The main aim is that you give children a positive future. There are lots of kids out there who really can barely enjoy life. Our goal is just to make their lives a little nicer.”
It’s not the first time Ozil’s goodwill has been in the spotlight. Last November he was presented with a Laureus Sport for Good award in recognition of his charity donations after the World Cup.
The 26-year-old used his prize bonus to help 23 seriously ill Brazilian children undergo much needed surgery.
