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November 26, 2007
Roger Federer to speak out on World AIDS Day
By David Koch, UNICEF
 NEW YORK, USA – Roger Federer, the
Association of Tennis Professionals world number-one tennis player and
UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, took a break from his whirlwind schedule of
tournaments, grand slams and public appearances to record a video
message raising awareness about HIV and AIDS.
The public service announcement supports the Unite for Children, Unite Against AIDS
campaign, launched by UNICEF and UNAIDS to draw attention to the impact
of the disease on children and young people. Since the campaign
launched in 2005, several countries have begun local initiatives of
their own, engaging thousands in the struggle.
Children infected with HIV or orphaned by AIDS often face enormous
stigma and discrimination. Being able to talk about the virus in the
first place is key to creating an AIDS-free generation.
 The power of sport
“I’ve seen kids in South Africa who’ve been affected and it’s a very
big problem, especially in the poorer countries,” said Mr. Federer,
whose mother was born in South Africa. “It’s important to break down
discrimination and stigma. Many people always think ‘I can’t talk to
this person’, but I think it’s very important to speak openly about it.
Ask your parents, teachers and coaches.”
Mr. Federer was appointed as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador in 2006
and joins many other celebrities and sports personalities in lending
their voices to the AIDS campaign, including Whoopi Goldberg, David
Beckham, Amitabh Bachchan, Shakira and stars from the National
Basketball Association and the International Cricket
Council.
“Sports have always been a great part of my life. It brings people
together, so it’s easier to talk about a subject like HIV,” added Mr.
Federer. “Sport inspires you to move on in life, and it’s important to
speak together if you’re playing a team sport.”
Making HIV a thing of the past
On his first trip as a Goodwill Ambassador last year, Mr. Federer
visited a life-skills workshop in India, which offered practical
information to young people to help them make responsible decisions –
such as how to best protect themselves from HIV/AIDS and educate others
about the disease.
“I think if people can help the process, trying to make HIV a thing
of the past, I’m willing to help, too,” he said. “It’s a hard subject
to talk about. People sometimes try to avoid it – that’s not the way to
go.”
“Children and young people continue to be disproportionately affected by HIV and AIDS. Sport creates leadership opportunities and teaches children teamwork, encouraging them to make good choices that can reduce their risk of HIV infection. Sport also helps prepare young people to meet challenges and encourage them to take leadership roles in their communities. Sport is a fun way to learn lessons that will last a life time.”
Mr. Federer’s video message in English, French and German will be released to mark this year’s World AIDS Day on 1 December.
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