Taylor Fritz pledges $82,000 Australian Open prize money to LA wildfire relief; makes impassioned plea amid devastating situation back at "home"

Taylor Fritz made a heartfelt gesture for his "home" Los Angeles by announcing that he would donate his first-round prize money to the LA wildfire relief fund. The prize for winning a first-round match at the 2025 Australian Open is AUD 132,000 (approximately $82,000).

After breezing past his second-round opponent Cristian Garin 6-2, 6-1, 6-0 on Thursday, January 16, Fritz was asked during his post-match interview if he had a message for his home state California, and the wildfire raging through Los Angeles.

"I just want everyone to obviously stay safe, it's just insane what has happened," Taylor Fritz said. "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," he added.

Fritz is among several tennis stars at the 2025 Australian Open who have shown support for Los Angeles in the wake of the devastating wildfires. Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff wrote supportive messages for the victims on the camera after their matches, while Jessica Pegula also dedicated her victory to the cause.

Donna Vekic also sent her message of support, especially after her coach, Pam Shriver, had to urgently travel to LA to tend to her home. Naomi Osaka, who revealed her house was not far from the affected areas, also voiced her solidarity with the community.

The LA wildfires have claimed at least 25 lives, scorched 40,000 acres, and destroyed over 12,300 structures. In response, Los Angeles County has declared a public health emergency due to smoke and particulate matter.

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Taylor Fritz's message of support for LA wildfire before the Australian Open 2025 began

In Picture: Taylor Fritz at the Australian Open 2025 - Source: Getty

Before the 2025 Australian Open kicked off, Taylor Fritz shared a heartfelt message of support for his hometown in the wake of the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. He expressed concern for the situation, particularly as he was away, and urged residents to stay safe.

"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," Taylor Fritz said in a video posted by Tennis Channel.

In the same video, Coco Gauff also expressed her thoughts and prayers for those impacted by the fires.

Both Gauff and Fritz have reached the third round of the Australian Open. Gauff will take on Canada's Leylah Fernandez while fourth seed Fritz will face 38-year-old Gael Monfils. This will be the second battle between Fritz and Monfils after the American won their first encounter at the 2019 Australian Open.