Michael Jordan will make a record-breaking $10 million donation to the Make-A-Wish foundation to commemorate his 60th birthday later this week, according to a statement released on Wednesday.
Jordan’s contribution to Make-A-Wish, which grants the wishes of children aged two to 18 who are battling critical illnesses, is the largest in the nonprofit’s 43-year history.
The six-time NBA champion has a long history with the organisation, having first worked with it in 1989.
Make-a-Wish said in a statement that the 59-year-old billionaire hoped his gesture would inspire others to donate to the foundation.
“For the past 34 years, it’s been an honour to partner with Make-A-Wish and help bring a smile and happiness to so many kids,” Jordan said in a news release.
“Witnessing their strength and resilience during such a tough time in their lives has truly been an inspiration.
“I can’t think of a better birthday gift than seeing others join me in supporting Make-A-Wish so that every child can experience the magic of having their wish come true.”
Make-A-Wish said Jordan had granted “hundreds” of wishes to children all over the world since 1989.
His multimillion-dollar donation will be used to create an endowment to help grant wishes in the future for children and young people with serious illnesses.
“Everyone knows about Michael’s legacy on the basketball court, but it’s what he has consistently done off the court when no one’s watching that makes him a true legend for wish families and the wider Make-A-Wish community,” said Make-A-Wish America chief executive Leslie Motter.
Jordan is regarded by many as the greatest basketball player in history, with six NBA Finals MVP awards in addition to his championship rings.
He also won five season MVP awards and was a 14-time All-Star during a career that spanned 1984 to 2003.