Brazil left a lasting impression on Mesut Ozil, and
now the German soccer star is saying thank you.
Ozil, who helped lead Germany to its first World
Cup title in 24 years, is donating his bonus money
from winning soccer's biggest prize to help pay for
the surgeries of 23 Brazilian children in need.
The midfield wiz, who plays his club soccer for
Arsenal in the Premier League, confirmed his
donation through the BigShoe charity on his
Facebook page Wednesday.
"Dear fans," Ozil wrote, "prior to the #WorldCup
I supported the surgery of eleven sick children.
Since the victory of the #WorldCup is not only due
to eleven players but to our whole team, I will
now raise the number to 23.
"This is my personal thank-you for the hospitality
of the people of Brazil. #Bigshoe #Brasil2014."
Germany beat Argentina 1-0 in extra time in
Sunday's final in Rio to complete the month-long
tournament hosted by Brazil.
The German players reportedly received bonuses
of $600,000 for delivering a fourth World Cup title
to the soccer-mad country.

Worthy cause