Coco Gauff and Iga Swiatek sign camera with emotional messages to LA wildfire rescuers after Australian Open 1R win

American tennis star Coco Gauff and World No. 2 Iga Swiatek began their Australian Open campaigns with a win. Gauff, 20, then signed the camera, sharing a heartfelt message for the wildfire victims in L.A. and the firefighters who played a pivotal role.

Wildfires sweeping across Los Angeles have caused widespread destruction, reportedly claiming 24 lives and destroying thousands of homes. Additionally, the National Weather Service issued red flag warnings for hazardous fire conditions through Wednesday, January 15, with winds reaching 50 mph and mountain gusts up to 70 mph.

On Sunday, January 12, efforts to combat the devastating wildfires intensified as firefighters worked tirelessly to control the blazes. Moreover, the aircraft deployed water and fire retardants to counter the Palisades Fire. It is reportedly the biggest in Los Angeles' history, engulfing over 23,000 acres.

After breezing through Sofia Kenin in the first round in just 80 minutes, World No. 3 Coco Gauff signed the camera with a poignant message for the wildfire rescuers. She wrote:

"Stay strong L.A. Thank you firefighters.”

Watch her message shared by the Tennis Letter on X:

Meanwhile, Iga Swiatek, who defeated Katerina Siniakova 6-3, 6-4 in just over 83 minutes, also extended her support to the wildfire victims. After the match, the Pole signed the camera with a heartfelt message.

"Sending my love to Malibu and LA."

In addition to Gauff and Swiatek, 23-time Major champion Serena Williams also expressed her heartfelt support for the wildfire victims in L.A. The American sent prayers and solidarity to her family, and those affected by the tragedy.

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Coco Gauff shared the details about her on-court outfit following 1R win at the 2025 Australian Open

Coco Gauff at 2025 Australian Open - Image Source: Getty

Coco Gauff dominated Kenin with a 6-4, 6-4 victory at the Rod Laver Arena. After her first-round win, Gauff shared details about her on-court New Balance outfit, which was inspired by the iconic superhero comics and entertainment brand, Marvel.

I’m a huge Marvel fan, and a lot of the female superheroes have cool cut-outs on their outfits. That’s what I wanted to do,” she said (via Tennis.com).

While praising New Balance's designs, the American acknowledged the challenges of getting into the bodysuit-like outfit. Gauff believes that fashion often requires sacrifices.

"New Balance has great designers; it’s actually kind of a pain to get into because it is a bodysuit, guys! I have to put the bottom part on first and pull it over my head. It’s kind of a struggle, and if you can’t hold your bladder, it’s also not a good idea…A couple times I’ve had to ask the referee to help unzip me to use the bathroom! You have to sacrifice for fashion!” she added.

Gauff's victory earned her a spot in the second round, where she'll face Jodie Burrage, who triumphed over qualifier Leolia Jeanjean 6-2, 6-4 in the opening round.