Every ace served at the ATP Cup, which kicks off today in Brisbane, Perth and Sydney, will raise money to support people and communities across Australia affected by the devastating bushfires.
Each ace served across the 10-day tournament at all three venues will deliver $100 to the Australian Red Cross bushfire disaster relief and recovery efforts.
With more than 1500 aces expected to be served by singles and doubles players across both the group rounds and Final Eight in Sydney, the ATP Cup contribution is expected to exceed $150,000.
"Communities across the whole country have been devastated by the bushfire crisis and at this time of the year, with our events in full swing, tennis has a unique opportunity to support the relief and recovery efforts,” ATP Cup Tournament Director Tom Larner said.
“Most of the players are already keen to score aces and win a quick point, and having the chance to raise money for the bushfire appeal will give them that extra bit of motivation.
“As a sport we also believe it’s important to recognise the tremendous contribution made by our volunteer firefighters, emergency services workers and community volunteers who come from every walk of life. We know many of them are also members of our tennis family and this initiative is just one way we can acknowledge their selflessness and bravery.”
ATP Cup players have also started to get involved individually, with Team Australia’s Alex de Minaur, Nick Kyrgios, John Millman and John Peers all pledging personal donations for every ace they serve.
The ATP Cup kicks off on Friday 3 January at Pat Rafter Arena in Brisbane, RAC Arena in Perth and Ken Rosewall Arena in Sydney.
The fundraising initiative will be jointly funded by the ATP, Tennis Australia, Tennis New South Wales, Tennis Queensland and Tennis West.
Other fundraising opportunities across the summer of tennis will be announced soon. Donations can be directed to the Australian Red Cross bushfire disaster relief and recovery efforts here.
