United States Serena Williams talks to media after winning her finals singles match against United States Jessica Pegula at the ASB Classic in Auckland, New Zealand, Jan 12, 2020. (CHRIS SYMES / PHOTOSPORTS VIA AP)

AUCKLAND, New Zealand - Serena Williams decided to donate all of her prize money for winning the WTA Auckland Classic championship to Australian bushfire relief efforts, the US tennis player said on Sunday.

I've been playing in Australia for over 20 years and it's been hard for me to watch all of the news that's been happening in Australia with all of the fires

Serena Williams

Williams won her first title in almost three years on Sunday, defeating Jessica Pegula 6-3 6-4 in the final.

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In her speech after the match, Williams said she will donate all of the 65,000 New Zealand dollars' (US$43,000) prize money to help the victims of the Australian bushfires.

"I've been playing in Australia for over 20 years and it's been hard for me to watch all of the news that's been happening in Australia with all of the fires," said the 23-time Grand Slam winner.

"Over a billion animals and people who have lost their homes, so much has happened. So I decided at the beginning of the tournament that in every match I play, I donate a dress and I'll also donate my prize money for a great cause," she added.

READ MORE: ‘Moment of truth’ lit up by bushfires

The Auckland Classic is the 73rd world title that Williams has won. The matches in New Zealand are believed to set her up well for the upcoming Australian Open.