Time has brought different kinds of challenges for everybody. It would have never crossed through our mind that one day we all will have to put a pause button on our lives. During this difficult time of COVID-19, every one of us is dealing with our issues and insecurities. The people who love to explore new things are stuck at home in isolation. All athletes and sportspersons have been hit hard by this epidemic.
Every sporting event and league has been postponed or cancelled to minimize the spread of the virus. The Summer Olympics, which are one of the biggest sports events, has also been countervailed. Not only the leagues but the broadcasting and commercial partnerships who cover these events are also affected. No broadcasting means no television broadcasting as well which has led to a disappointment for all the sports lovers who are eagerly waiting for them.
This pandemic has not only affected the physical health of all the athletes but has also adversely affected their mental health. Every one of them is doing everything to keep their spirits high and to cope up. Like Michael Phelps, an Olympic swimmer says, “You dream. You plan. You reach. There will be obstacles. There will be doubters. There will be mistakes. But with hard work, with belief, with confidence and trust in yourself and those around you, there are no limits.”
Stalwarts from the sports community have come forward to help the society by contributing financially e.g. Tennis legend Roger Federer donated about Rs. 7.9 cr to ‘most vulnerable families in Switzerland’. Footballer Lionel Messi donated approximately Rs 8.2 cr to a hospital clinic in Barcelona. Footballer, Christiano Ronaldo donated to three intensive care units to Portuguese hospitals to help them cope with the coronavirus pandemic. Sachin Tendulkar donated Rs 50 lakh to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. Cricketer Suresh Raina pledged to donate Rs 31 lakhs to PM-CARES Fund, and Rs 21 lakh to UP CM’s Disaster Relief Fund against the COVID-19 battle. Batsman Rohit Sharma has donated Rs 80 lakh.
We all have to remind ourselves that these times too shall pass and if we put up a united front, in no time we will be able to defeat the virus. We are not alone in this and we should do whatever we can to help the athletes and sports persons around us.
