In response, some of sport’s top earners are donating a portion of their wages to help those in need.
NFL player JJ Watt and his wife Kealia Ohai, a professional soccer player for the Chicago Red Stars, have led the way, donating $350,000 to the Houston Food Bank.
Around the leagues
Reigning MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo and teen sensation Zion Williamson are just a few of the names who have said they will help support the employees at the basketball arenas they play in.
Antetokounmpo announced on Twitter that he would be paying $100,000 to Milwakuee’s Fiserv Forum staff, while Williamson — who is still in his rookie season — said in a post on Instagram he was paying the salaries of Smoothie King Center employees for the next 30 days.
Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns announced he is donating $100,000 to the Mayo Clinic to assist in coronavirus testing.
The Golden State Warriors announced that the franchise’s owners, players and coaches will contribute $1 million to disaster relief fund for Chase Center employees.
Around the world
Athletes outside of the US are also coming together to help provide support.
Son’s compatriot, esports superstar “Faker,” has donated about $25,000 to the Community Chest of Korea charity.
In Italy, 18-time top-flight champion AC Milan announced it would donate $284,000 (€250,000) to relief efforts tackling the virus, as well as reimbursing fans who were not able to attend games that took place behind closed doors.
Elsewhere, fans of Atalanta announced that they would be making a donation of $45,000 (€40,000) to a northern Italian hospital.