Ozil to donate World Cup earnings to Gaza

German international footballer and legendary Arsenal FC player Mesut Ozil will be donating his World Cup winnings to the children of Gaza.

Amid the Israeli bombing campaign that has claimed more than 200 lives since July 7, Ozil made the announcement after Germany’s triumph at the 2014 World Cup according to various news websites, cited World Bulletin.net.

The German football star was awarded €150,000 (around RM646 thousand) following their semi-final win and €300,000 (around RM1.2 million) bonus from the German Football association for winning the cup, in addition to other rewards for every game.

The online portal reported that social media blew up with Ozil’s name particularly after he recited the Al-Quran on pitch during the start of the final against Argentina and gave thanks to God when they won.

Ozil, not a stranger to controversy also declined to shake hands with a FIFA official because of his support for Israel.