Coco Gauff & Taylor Fritz send emotional messages after LA wildfires wreak havoc with over $135 billion in reported damages

Coco Gauff and Taylor Fritz sent emotional messages to the residents of Los Angeles and Southern California after wildfire wreaked havoc on the county, with reported damages set to exceed $135 billion.

That makes it one of the costliest fires in US history and is set to cost insurance losses of more than $8 billion as per analysts, with some going as far as to predict a $20 billion loss for the industry.

The cause of the fire is still unknown, but aided by strong winds, at least 27,000 acres of land in Los Angeles county are damaged, with five major fire zones claiming most of the responsibility. More than 10,000 firefighters, including incarcerated firefighters and first responders, have been roped in to fight the disaster. Evacuation zones have been declared across the county, sending thousands of residents fleeing their homes every day.

Fritz and Gauff are currently not in the US, having landed in Melbourne last week for the Australian Open. Yet, their thoughts remain with their compatriots, who have been forced to deal with the unfortunate situation.

In a video message posted through the Tennis Channel, Fritz thanked the firefighters for putting their lives on the line. He also urged everyone to donate to causes helping out the affected victimes in any way.

"It is insane to see everything going on, especially while I'm away. But, everyone in LA, stay safe. Make sure to evacuate if you are in an evacuation zone. To all the firefighters are doing an amazing job so thank you to everyone that's helping out. Make sure you donate if you are able to. Stay strong everyone and thank you everyone that's doing their best to put out the fires," Fritz said.

In a similar message, Gauff also sent her 'thoughts and prayers' to everyone affected, and included a special mention of appreciation to incarcerated firefighters.

"First I would like to send my thoughts and prayers to everyone affected by this fire and send my biggest thank yous to the firefighters and first responders fighting these fires. Especially the incarcerated firefighters who aren't getting paid as much. We appreciate you and love you. Stay strong Southern california. Just know I'll be there to donate and help," Gauff said.

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Coco Gauff and Taylor Fritz at Australian Open 2025

2025 Australian Open Previews - Source: Getty

On the tennis side of things, Coco Gauff will start her 2025 campaign at the Australian Open against compatriot Sofia Kenin. Placed in the top half of the draw, Gauff is likely to meet World No. 1 and two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka in the semifinals in Melbourne.

Meanwhile, Taylor Frtiz will start his Australian Open run with a first-round meeting against compatriot Jenson Brooksby. The No. 4 seed is also in the top of the draw and could end up battling World No. 1 and defending champion Jannik Sinner in the semifinals.