Tennis world unites for Svajda household: Blake, Nakashima to function in exhibition | ATP Tour

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Tennis world unites for Svajda household: Blake, Nakashima to function in exhibition

Fundraiser to be held Saturday in San Diego

December 06, 2024

The tennis neighborhood is rallying round People Trevor Svajda and Zachary Svajda as their father, Tom Svajda, battles most cancers. An exhibition occasion that includes James Blake and Brandon Nakashima will happen on Saturday, 7 December, with all proceeds directed in direction of Tom’s medical bills.

The occasion, hosted at Rancho Santa Fe Tennis Membership in San Diego, will function the 22-year-old Zach partnering his brother, Trevor — a standout faculty participant at Southern Methodist College in Dallas — in a doubles match towards former World No. 4 Blake and 2022 Subsequent Gen ATP Finals introduced by PIF champion Nakashima.

“This occasion holds a particular place in my coronary heart,” stated Zach, who climbed to No. 102 within the PIF ATP Rankings earlier this 12 months.. “My dad was recognized with stage 4 most cancers, and our journey by way of his therapy and battle has been extremely difficult. Supporting him by way of this has been one of the vital troublesome but significant experiences of my life.”

Zach’s youthful brother, Trevor, defined how vital the second is for his or her household.

“This event is extremely significant to me, significantly as a result of our dad goes by way of a troublesome interval,” stated Trevor, who in 2023 competed in US Open qualifying after reaching the ultimate of the USTA Boys’ 18s Nationwide Championships. “The dedication of everybody attending to indicate their love and assist actually makes a distinction and means the whole lot to us.”

Tom, who has labored as a tennis coach for greater than 30 years, is a beloved determine within the San Diego neighborhood and past. Tickets to the exhibition may be bought by clicking right here. Further donations may be made by visiting the Svajda’s GoFundMe.

Blake’s father, Thomas Blake Sr., misplaced his battle with gastric most cancers in 2004. Cash raised by James Blake Basis helps the Thomas Blake Sr. Fund at Memorial Sloan Kettering Most cancers Heart. 

“I made a decision to take part as a result of the tennis neighborhood could be very small. It’s a lifetime sport and in addition a household sport. I performed with my dad and mom and Zach and Trevor performed with their dad. It’s a sport that may be loved as a household, and when part of the tennis household is hurting, the entire neighborhood is hurting,” stated Blake.

“We really feel for Tom a lot and wish to do what we are able to to assist the household and lift some cash. So the time and vitality for me to be part of it’s my pleasure. I hope it makes a significant distinction.”

Nakashima added: “I’ve identified Tom and the Svajda household for greater than a decade since my junior tennis days competing with Zachary. Tom has been so dedicated to serving to his youngsters pursue their ardour. Zachary and I’ve an amazing friendship. We practice collectively, inspire one another, and push one another by way of the challenges of the tour.

“For me, it’s so fulfilling to make use of my platform to raise up their spirits throughout this very troublesome time. I like to provide again to the neighborhood each time I’ve a chance to take action.”