In an extraordinary act of generosity, Nottingham Forest’s star striker Chris Wood has pledged his entire £10 million performance bonus and endorsement earnings to charities and homelessness initiatives across the UK and New Zealand. The 33-year-old forward, whose prolific form has propelled Forest into Premier League title contention, revealed the decision in an exclusive interview, emphasizing his commitment to “giving back to communities that have supported me throughout my career” .
A Career-Defining Gesture
Wood’s donation comes amid a career-best season, with the New Zealand international scoring 17 Premier League goals—surpassing his previous records and ranking third in the league’s scoring charts behind Erling Haaland and Mohamed Salah . His recent contract extension until 2027, signed in January 2025, included performance-based incentives tied to Forest’s unexpected title challenge. Rather than retain the windfall, Wood redirected the funds to causes close to his heart, including The Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal, a charity he has actively supported through match-worn shirt auctions .
Roots of Humility and Community Focus
Teammates and coaches have long praised Wood’s grounded personality. Forest captain Ryan Yates described him as “humble” and “a role model,” traits that align with his philanthropic vision . Wood’s upbringing in Auckland, where his father introduced him to community-oriented activities like horse racing, instilled a sense of social responsibility. “Horses taught me patience and compassion,” Wood shared, referencing his involvement with Michael Owen’s Manor House stables, which he uses as a retreat from football’s pressures .
Addressing Homelessness and Supporting Veterans
The donation will prioritize homelessness initiatives in Nottingham and Auckland, alongside continued support for armed forces veterans. Wood’s partnership with The Royal British Legion, highlighted by his contributions to the Poppy Appeal, underscores his dedication to veterans’ welfare. “These individuals sacrifice everything. The least I can do is ensure they’re not forgotten,” he stated .
A Legacy Beyond Football
Wood’s decision reflects his broader ethos. Despite being labeled a “statistical outlier” for outperforming his expected goals (xG) by a staggering margin—scoring 17 goals from an xG of just 7.9—he remains focused on team success and community impact . Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis hailed the gesture as “embodying the spirit of the club,” noting Wood’s “winning mentality on and off the pitch” .
Reactions and Future Plans
Fans and charities alike have celebrated the move. Homelessness charity Shelter called it “transformational,” while Forest supporters launched a social media campaign thanking Wood for his “heart of gold.” The striker, meanwhile, remains focused on Forest’s title bid and his upcoming wedding in Italy, proving that even in the spotlight, his priorities extend far beyond personal accolades .
In a football era often criticized for excess, Chris Wood’s £10 million pledge stands as a testament to the power of sport to drive meaningful change—a legacy that will endure long after his final match.
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