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Tennis community shows support for Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin

Jessica Pegula, daughter of the NFL team's owners, put things in perspective after a horrifying scene in Cincinnati, while John Isner shared a link to Hamlin's charity—which has raised nearly $4 million since last night.

By Ed McGrogan
CINCINNATI, OHIO - JANUARY 02: Fans gather for a vigil at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center for football player Damar Hamlin of the Buffalo Bills, who collapsed after making a tackle during the game against the Cincinnati Bengals and was transported by ambulance to the hospital on January 02, 2023 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)
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Whether you follow the National Football League or not, there was no escaping the horrific news that Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin collapsed on the field during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals last night, forcing medical personnel to administer CPR. Hours after the 24-year-old was transported to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center—a Level 1 trauma hospital—and game was subsequently postponed, the Bills reported that Hamlin suffered a cardiac arrest, and that his heartbeat was restored on the field.

As of 11:30 a.m. ET on Tuesday, Hamlin is sedated and in critical condition.

Everyone at Tennis Channel expresses their support, love and prayers for Hamlin, his family and team.

Support for Hamlin was inescapable on social media throughout the terrifying scene, and well into the following day.

Jessica Pegula, daughter of Bills' owners Tim and Kerry Pegula, emphasized the familial aspect of sport while also putting the game into proper perspective:

Pegula's post was retweeted by many in the football and tennis worlds, including Coco Gauff, who added her own thoughts:

One of the most inspiring events to come out of last night's tragedy was the global support for Hamlin's charity, The Chasing M's Foundation. The McKees Rocks, Pa. native had set up an annual toy drive for children in the Pittsburgh suburb, establishing a goal of $2,500 in donations via GoFundMe. Dollars poured in throughout the night, climbing into the seven digits.

As of 11:30 a.m. ET on Tuesday, nearly $4 million has been donated.

John Isner called attention to Hamlin's commendable efforts last night:

The three active American players joined countless others in the tennis community showing their support, and praying for, Damar Hamlin:

We will continue to update this developing story.