Taylor Fritz donates Australian Open prize money to Los Angeles wildfire relief

American tennis player Taylor Fritz, currently ranked world number four, has announced that he will donate his first-round prize money from the Australian Open to help victims of the devastating Los Angeles wildfires. The 27-year-old, who lives in California, made the decision after reaching the third round in Melbourne by defeating Chilean qualifier Cristian Garin in straight sets, 6-2, 6-1, 6-0.

First-round prize money at the Australian Open amounts to AUS$132,000 (US$82,000). Fritz, who previously resided in LA for an extended period, expressed his concern for those affected by the wildfires and encouraged others to contribute to relief efforts.

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"I just want everyone to obviously stay safe, it's just insane what has happened," said the 27-year-old.

"I'm going to be donating my first-round prize money to LA wildfire relief funds.


"It's really the least I can do. Southern California is my home and LA was my home for a long time.

"I'm just doing what I can possibly do to help and I would encourage anyone else who can donate to help because a lot of people really need it."

The deadly fires, which began more than a week ago, have been fuelled by hurricane-force winds, resulting in the loss of two dozen lives and the destruction of large areas of the city. Several other tennis players, including Coco Gauff, Madison Keys, and Jessica Pegula, have expressed their shock and admiration for the firefighters' tireless efforts.


Keys, who once lived in the LA area, donated $20,000 to the city's fire department "in support of the incredibly brave firefighters working tirelessly to protect the community." Pegula, the founder of the dog rescue charity A Lending Paw, has been using her online presence to share ways to help the hundreds of animals displaced by the fires.

Naomi Osaka, who represents Japan but resides in Los Angeles, revealed on Monday that the wildfires were "three blocks" from her home, highlighting the severity of the situation.