The LA wildfires have gravely impacted not just those affected, but those who share a history with the stunning Californian city. Days after the fire engulfed the city, several tennis stars have come forward to donate a substantial amount to the LA Relief Fund, with Taylor Fritz topping the list as one of the biggest contributors. Following his second-round victory over Cristian Garin at the Australian Open, the American No. 1 narrated how his friends and family were directly hit by the rampant fires.

Almost a week ago, deadly fires, fanned by hurricane-force gusts, left several spots in Los Angeles in ruins and left over two dozen people dead. While the update shocked many, notable personalities in the sport have been expressing their shock at the tragic incident. Players like Coco Gauff, Madison Keys, and Jessica Pegula praised the firefighters for their valiant efforts and one-time LA resident Keys donated $20,000 to the city’s fire department as they worked “tirelessly to protect the community.”

Fritz didn’t back down from showcasing his supportive side when he donated his first-round win prize money of AU$ 132,000 (US$82,000) for those affected by the astounding fires. “I just want everyone to stay safe, it’s just insane what has happened. I’m going to be donating my first-round prize money to LA wildfire relief funds. It’s the least I can do. Southern California is my home and LA was my home for a long time,” Fritz said.

Following his entry in the third round of the ‘Happy Slam’ with a straight-set victory over Chilean qualifier Cristian Garin, the American sensation highlighted that the house his brothers grew up in also got burned down in the aftermath of the wildfire in a post-match presser. “I feel like it’s the least I can do. SoCal has been my home forever and I spent a lot of time in LA. I have friends impacted. The house that my brothers grew up in burnt down so they’re not living there anymore. If you’re in a place to help, you should,” the World No. 3 added.

Fritz also wrote “LA” and drew a heart on the camera lens after his 6-2 6-1 6-0 win over Garin in Melbourne before remarking on his plans for the upcoming R3 showcase at the Margaret Court Arena.

Taylor Fritz “high in confidence” ahead of clashing with Gael Monfils

American superstar Taylor Fritz has barely taken his foot off the gas since his runner-up finish against Italian Jannik Sinner at the US Open. He registered a similar result at the ATP Finals in Turin and now, he wants to record a true movie script in Melbourne. For those unaware, the 27-year-old has never moved past the quarterfinals of the AO in his previous appearances.

Ahead of his third-round clash against Frenchman Gael Monfils, Fritz expressed his excitement about digging deep in the ongoing mega event saying, “It always feels great to come out and play a match like that. I played well in the first round too, so I’m high in confidence going into the third round. This is awesome.”

The fourth seed is adamant about staying consistent at the top-tier events following his dream run in 2024. Fritz also enjoys some serious backing in Melbourne, with his content creator girlfriend Morgan Riddle being one of his passionate supporters for a maiden Slam title.

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Fritz and Monfils will square off for a place in the fourth round of the ‘Happy Slam’ on Saturday, January 18.