The “Hit for Haiti” fundraising event, organized by world number one Roger Federer before the Australian Open, was a huge successful after it raised more than $185,000. The amount is expected to increase as several tennis stars have committed separate contributions.
The proceeds will go to the earthquake victims in Haiti.
Eight players participated in the event. The Red Team was composed of Federer, Serena Williams, Lleyton Hewitt and Samantha Stosur. The Blue Team was composed of Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Andy Roddick and Kim Clijsters.
The players took part in mixed doubles matches and to add more entertainment, each wore microphones on the court to provide commentary.
Jokes and immitations such as Roddick mocking Williams’ headline-grabbing meltdown at the US Open last year cracked up the audience.
When all was said and done, it was the Red Team who won the one set match 7-6. The match lasted nearly two hours.
“It was a fun afternoon for all of us. But most important is that we can help Haiti,” Federer told the audience after the match.
Despite not taking part in the event, organizers revealed that Maria Sharapova contributed $10,000, John Isner gave $5,000 from his tournament winnings last weekend, same with Sydney International champion Marcos Baghdatis who contributed $5,000.
