Billie Jean King Cup: Tennis community raises more than $1 million for Ukraine
$225,000 was raised as part of the Billie Jean King Cup qualifying encounters - such as between the USA and Ukraine. Overall, the tennis community was able to collect over a million in aid money.
by Stefan Bergmann
last edit: Apr 18, 2022, 01:17 pm
This fundraiser for a good cause is something to be proud of: The "Tennis Plays for Peace" initiative was able to collect more than one million US dollars in aid for war-torn Ukraine by this Billie Jean King Cup weekend. Alone 225,000 US dollars came from the encounter between the USA and Ukraine in Asheville, North Carolina. The fact that the match finally ended 3:2 for the US players was almost a minor matter.
"The tennis community is just amazing. As I've always said, we're family. We're really one big and close-knit family. When things get tough, and we know the last two years with the pandemic and the Ukraine- War were really tough, we really unite, we come together, do what's right, do what's best. We really care about each other," said US captain Kathy Rinaldi after the international match.
"Couldn't be prouder of the tennis community"
"The amount of money we raised is really incredible. As I said to the Ukrainian players, no one should worry alone," continued Rinaldi. "Tennis Plays for Peace" was launched last week by seven associations and organizers. ATP, WTA, ITF and the four Grand Slam tournaments support the humanitarian aid efforts for Ukraine. The money will go to Global Giving's Ukraine Crisis Relief Fund.
"I couldn't be prouder of the tennis community," the 55-year-old continued. "I think relationships are so important. I started my professional career when I was 14, so I know a lot of people. Tennis has given me so much that I'm grateful for. That's what tennis does. It's the greatest sport "The former world number seven is also quoted.