(Reuters) – The International Tennis Federation (ITF) and three Grand Slams — Wimbledon, U.S. Open and French Open — have collectively pledged $400,000 to Australian bushfire relief efforts, the sport’s international governing body said on Monday.
Twenty-eight people have been killed and thousands made homeless in recent months as huge fires scorched through 11.2 million hectares (27.7 million acres), nearly half the area of the United Kingdom.
The money, which is in addition to the funds raised by Tennis Australia’s Aces for Bushfire Relief campaign, will be donated to the Australian Red Cross which has helped thousands in evacuation centres and aided volunteers and relief workers.
“The worldwide tennis community has come together in support of all those affected by the bushfires across many parts of Australia,” ITF president David Haggerty said in a statement.
“This donation will support the Red Cross teams who are working hard on the ground providing essential emergency assistance including relief centres, aid and practical support for victims, evacuated families and those who have lost their homes.
“We would like to commend all members of the tennis community who are currently raising funds and awareness.”
With the Australian Open set to begin next week, tennis players have also been donating to relief efforts.
On Sunday, Serena Williams said she would donate her prize-money from winning the Auckland Classic while Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal will feature in an exhibition match to raise funds.
Australian cricket great Shane Warne’s “baggy green” cap fetched more than A$1 million ($690,600) in an auction while nine Australian players from the National Basketball Association have committed $750,000 towards the relief and recovery efforts.
(Reporting by Rohith Nair in Bengaluru; Editing by Christian Radnedge)
