I just listened to the interview again. He repeatedly said he probably would not make it and then just threw in at the end that it would be a nice gesture if someone sponsored him to come....which is a fair statement...doesnt mean he's broke or anything, just shows he appreciates nice gestures.
Besides, Nasser attending woudl be more to other peoples' benefit than his own (by allowing others to enjoy Nasser's company), so it would make sense for them to incur the cost.