Sam’s ace for charity

Australia’s best tennis player Sam Stosur is donating $100 from every ace she serves at the Brisbane International to the Queensland flood victims.

Her pledge has already been supported by former world No.1 Andy Roddick who will also give $100 for every ace he serves.

Stosur knows from personal experience the damage floods can cause.

“The way the people of Queensland have been affected by the floods is really close to my heart,” Stosur said.

“I only remember a few details of what happen to my family in 1987 but it turned our way of life upside down and was devastating to my family.

“We lost everything, photos, furniture, all our possessions apart from what we were wearing.  It could have been a lot worse as my younger brother’s cot was completely submerged in water but he was in my parent’s bed that night.

“I also remember Daniel diving for my mum’s wedding ring which she lost in the water – he found it.

“I guess this is why I felt it is important for me to try and give something back.

“I am Queenslander and I want to help even in a small way.  When you are in this kind of situation every little bit helps and I hope my small contribution does just that.”

Brisbane International Tournament Director Steve Ayles said Stosur’s initiative was typically thoughtful of her.

To help kick-along the fund-raising he pledged $5000 from the Brisbane International.

“From the coverage I have seen these floods have caused so much heartache for many Queenslanders and we want to make some sort of contribution to helping ease the pain. “

Stosur is currently competing at the Brisbane International where she in the No.1 women’s seed.

Not only did her parents lose their home and business due to a flood but her grandparents lost their house in Rocklea in 1974 due to a flood.