The devastation that Australia continues to endure has inspired many to band together in the name of hope. From actors and singers to comedians and models, some of the biggest names in the industry are using their status for good.
Athletes, in particular, are spearheading tremendously generous efforts. Serena Williams, Roger Federer, and Rafa Nadal are among a few.
As three notable names in tennis, Williams, Federer, and Nadal have considerable pull. In the hopes of raising funds for Australia’s bushfire relief, they held an exhibition match. Caroline Wozniacki, Nick Kyrgios, Stefanos Tsitsipas, and Naomi Osaka were also in attendance.
The game took place on January 15, with admission fees going towards relief efforts as well.
So far, 24 people have died in the Australian fires. Even more unsettling is the 18 million acres of land that have been reduced to ashes. With no end in sight, Australia’s future looks alarmingly grim. Fortunately, we’re doing more about it than sending our thoughts and prayers.
The tennis community has been especially involved, and Craig Tiley, the CEO of Tennis Australia, couldn’t be prouder.
These charitable initiatives began when Kyrgios pledged $140 for every ace he hit. Many of his fellow players followed suit, including Glen Maxwell, Chris Lynn, and D’Arcy Short. Meanwhile, Tennis Australia announced that they’d be donating $69 for every ace hit across six different tournaments.
In addition to this substantial contribution, Tennis Australia also set aside $700,000 to restore tennis facilities.
The Women’s Tennis Association was also keen to get involved. Much like Tennis Australia, they pledged $69 for every ace hit at Auckland’s ASB Classic, the Brisbane International, the Hobart International, and the Adelaide International.
Maria Sharapova, another renowned name in tennis, pitched in a generous $17,400. Novak Djokovic matched this contribution, totaling $34,800 between the two.
Sharapova went one step further when she auctioned off signed pairs of tennis shoes for $206 each. She granted these donations to the Australian Red Cross. A similar effort was made by Shane Warne, an Australian cricket player. During his test career, Warne wore a baggy green cap that was celebrated by viewers. It went for an astonishing $343,000.
Australian NBA players are even pitching in. A total of $750,000 has been raised between these athletes. Ben Simmons and Patty Mills are leading these philanthropic causes.
According to Simmons and Mills, this is just one way that they can shower “families, friends, and all of the people of Australia” with “love and support.”
While the destruction that Australia’s seen has no silver lining, it’s nice to know that we can put our differences aside for the sake of preserving Mother Earth.
Kudos to all the athletes and noteworthy stars who are doing their part to spark a change!
