CAPE TOWN - Paris Saint Germain forward, Kylian Mbappe, is set to donate millions to charity after winning the World Cup with France.
Mbappe pledged to donate his match salary to a French charity called Premiers de Cordee, which helps disabled children by hosting sporting activities, at the start of the tournament.
However, the size of the donation has more than doubled as a result of France’s victory over Croatia in Sunday’s final.
The 19-year-old has reportedly earned $29 000 for each of the seven games he played in Russia, which would amount to $203 000 alone.
But Mbappe and his teammates will also earn $350 000 each as a bonus for winning the tournament, and the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation claims the striker will include his bonus winnings in the donation.
That would mean the full donation amounts to a staggering $553 000 or R7 282 880.
Although already recognised as one of world football’s brightest young talents, Mbappe was the undoubted break-out star in Russia.
He scored four goals in total, but his contribution to France’s success stretched further than just goals and assists.
The former Monaco star was one of France’s main attacking outlets, keeping defenders on their toes with his speed and dribbling ability.
His performances saw comparisons drawn with Brazil legend and now fellow World Cup winner, Pele. The young forward was also subsequently named Young Player of the Tournament, with Croatia captain Luka Modric winning the Golden Ball (Player of the Tournament) award.
Mbappe’s donation will go a long way to helping the charity, but it won’t hurt his bank balance all that much.
He earned around $1.8 (R23 827 860) per month at PSG last season according to reports and his salary is only expected to increase in the coming years.
19-year-old World Champion Kylian Mbappé is donating 100% of his pay ($29K per game + $350K bonus for winning the #WorldCup) to a charity that helps hospitalised and disabled children through the power of sport.
Already a legend on and off the pitch. #SportforGood #FRA pic.twitter.com/lSvpfG2DSZ
— Laureus (@LaureusSport) July 16, 2018
The king will always remain king 👑
— Kylian Mbappé (@KMbappe) July 16, 2018