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More than 12,000 fans filled UCLA's Straus Stadium at the LA Tennis Center this weekend on the eve of the Farmers Classic, presented by Mercedes-Benz, for special events that raised more than $500,000 combined for charity.
On Friday night, Keith Urban and the Avett Brothers performed before a packed stadium as part of Starry Night to benefit the GRAMMY Foundation as well as the Southern California Tennis Association.
Tennis returned to Straus Stadium on Saturday, as another capacity crowd saw Andre Agassi defeat John McEnroe at Stars Under the Stars, presented by Grubb & Ellis, to benefit the Andre Agassi Foundation for Education.
"The most important thing from the past couple days is that we raised needed funds for some very worthy causes that really emphasize helping children," said tournament director Bob Kramer. "The entertainers and tennis legends who have performed at UCLA the past couple days wowed the crowd, and we look forward to the same as today's tennis stars take to the court for the start of the Farmers Classic, presented by Mercedes-Benz, on Monday."
World No. 4 Andy Murray and defending champion Sam Querrey headline the singles field for the 2010 tournament. Among the other players in the field are Americans James Blake and Robby Ginepri, along with Mardy Fish, who has won two titles already this summer.
Headlining the doubles field are five-time Farmers Classic, presented by Mercedes-Benz, champions Bob and Mike Bryan. The Bryans are tied for the Open Era record with 61 career titles and will be attempting to establish a new record at their hometown tournament.
Main draw play will begin on Straus Stadium Monday, while the final round of qualifying will take place on the Grandstand.