But quickly, others in the tight-knit local tennis community, and worldwide, rallied to help Tom Svajda’s fight. The GoFundMe created to support Tom Svajda’s medical expenses and the family has, to date, raised nearly $93,000 of its initial $150,000 goal, and over the weekend, James Blake and Brandon Nakashima participated in a fundraising exhibition to raise more money. The event, hosted at Rancho Santa Fe Tennis Club in San Diego, featured the Svajda brothers competing in a doubles match against Blake and Nakashima.
“I’ve known Tom and the Svajda family for more than a decade since my junior tennis days competing with Zachary,” Nakashima said. “Tom has been so committed to helping his kids pursue their passion. Zachary and I have a great friendship. We train together, motivate each other, and push each other through the challenges of the tour.
“For me, it is so fulfilling to use my platform to lift up their spirits during this very difficult time. I love to give back to the community whenever I have an opportunity to do so.”
