Novak Djokovic, world No. 1 in men’s singles tennis, visited Centro Mater Childcare Center today to mark a $20,000 donation from his foundation to support the organization’s programs for disadvantaged children.

“Supporting the dreams of children is so important to Jelena and me, and it will always be,” Novak Djokovic said, following his visit to the Centro Mater center. “We have a long-term vision for our Foundation to support disadvantaged children in reaching their potential.”

“Real change happens when people and organizations work together. That is why we are proud to support Centro Mater, an organization that shares our passion to help children through early childhood education.”

The Novak Djokovic Foundation’s Global CEO, Alberto Lidji, added, “The services provided to disadvantaged children at Centro Mater are invaluable and improve equality of opportunity and chances for lifelong success for the very youngest members of society. Children are hugely influenced by their early education so programs such as this can have a life altering impact.”

Centro Mater Foundation Chair, Octavio Verdeja, Jr. said the donation would be welcomed by the families of the preschoolers who would not otherwise have the opportunity to attend a summer learning camp where they can thrive.

“We are overjoyed that the Novak Djokovic shares our commitment to the wellbeing of children who feel Centro Mater is their home away from home. This donation will make a huge difference in their critical formative years during which self-confidence, creativity, and motivation are developed. We’re extremely grateful to the Novak Djokovic Foundation for its generous contribution towards the healthy development of our youngest and most vulnerable.”

“Our preschoolers were delighted to meet Mr. Djokovic and have a chance to talk about tennis with the world No. 1.”

Longtime early education advocate, David Lawrence Jr., Chair of The Children’s Movement of Florida, noted, “Preparing children to succeed in school and in life presents both a huge challenge and opportunity for countries around the world. The commitment of the NDF to support early childhood education is a welcome contribution to meeting this challenge.”