The Australian Open is taking place amid the bushfire crisis ©Getty Images

International Tennis Federation (ITF) President David Haggerty has praised the sport's work to raise money for the Australian bushfire crisis.

The blazes across the country have overshadowed the ongoing Australian Open, the first Grand Slam of the season, in Melbourne.

A sum of $400,000 (£304,000/€360,000) has been donated to the cause by the ITF and the three other Grand Slam tournaments – the French Open, Wimbledon and the US Open.

This is in addition to Tennis Australia's Aces for Bushfire Relief campaign and other donations from around the world.

Several players are among those to have made pledges.

"The worldwide tennis community has come together in support of all those affected by the bushfires across many parts of Australia," said Haggerty. 

"This donation will support the Red Cross teams who are working hard on the ground providing essential emergency assistance including relief centres, aid and practical support for victims, evacuated families and those who have lost their homes. 

"We would like to commend all members of the tennis community who are currently raising funds and awareness."

The bushfires affected the qualifying tournament for the Australian Open, when smoke blanketed the courts.

Slovenian player Dalila Jakupović abandoned her match after suffering a coughing fit.

Bushfire smoke at Melbourne Park during the qualification tournament ©Getty Images
Bushfire smoke at Melbourne Park during the qualification tournament ©Getty Images

At least 25 people have died due to the fires which have been caused by high temperatures and droughts.

Thousands more have lost their homes.

Jayne Hrdlicka, Tennis Australia's chair, said: "Sadly, the start to the tennis season, and the new decade, comes with tragedy. 

"The fires in Australia continue to dominate world news and the devastation is hard to comprehend.

"Several weeks ago we launched our Aces for Bushfire Relief campaign, which will see a donation made for every ace hit across the Australian summer of tennis. 

"With this initiative, and the support of the broader tennis community, we hope to raise millions of dollars throughout January. 

"We want to ensure that as a sport, globally, we show our huge heart and compassion for what is taking place around us. 

"The fundraising will support the emergency services teams and families who have suffered great loss. 

"The rebuilding of communities and lives will take many, many years and we have the opportunity to make a real difference.

"The generosity and genuine care shown from the tennis family throughout the world has been overwhelming."