Andy Murray and Kim Sears Announce Heartfelt Support for Mikayla Raines’ Family After Tragic Loss

In a heartrending turn of events, the tennis world and animal advocacy community have united in grief over the loss of Mikayla Raines, the 29-year-old YouTube star and founder of Save A Fox Rescue in Minnesota, who tragically took her own life on June 20, 2025, following a relentless online bullying campaign. The news sent shockwaves across social media, with fans and supporters mourning the loss of a woman whose boundless empathy saved countless foxes and exotic animals. But it was an unexpected announcement from tennis legend Andy Murray and his wife, Kim Sears, that has captured global attention, offering a beacon of hope amidst the tragedy.

Mikayla Raines, who built a following of 2.4 million on YouTube and over 500,000 on Instagram, was celebrated for her dedication to rescuing animals from fur farms and unfit homes. Her husband, Ethan Frankcamp, revealed that Mikayla, who struggled with depression, autism, and borderline personality disorder, was deeply affected by online harassment, including from a now-banned Reddit subreddit, SaveAFoxSnark, which targeted her for years. The pain of this cyberbullying, compounded by her sensitivity, ultimately became too much to bear, leaving behind Ethan and their young daughter, Freya.

When Andy Murray and Kim Sears learned of Mikayla’s story, they were profoundly moved. The couple, known for their philanthropy and love for animals—Kim is an avid supporter of dog rescue initiatives—felt compelled to act. On a quiet morning in Glasgow, they posted an emotional message on social media, expressing their sorrow and admiration for Mikayla’s legacy. “Mikayla Raines was a warrior for the voiceless,” Andy wrote. “Her compassion for animals touched millions, and her loss is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of online cruelty. Kim and I are heartbroken for her family, and we want to honor her memory.”

But it was their action following this announcement that truly stirred the internet. The couple revealed they would establish the Mikayla Raines Memorial Fund, a charitable initiative to support Save A Fox Rescue and provide mental health resources for young activists facing online harassment. The fund aims to ensure Mikayla’s mission continues, with a goal of rescuing the remaining 100 foxes from a fur farm she was working to save in her final days. Additionally, a portion of the fund will support Ethan and Freya, helping them navigate their loss while keeping Save A Fox operational.

The announcement, made during a live event at the New Wimbledon Theatre on July 1, 2025, left fans in tears. Murray, speaking candidly about his own struggles with pressure in the public eye, emphasized the need for compassion in the digital age. “Mikayla’s story hits close to home,” he said. “We’ve all seen how words online can wound. Kim and I want to turn this tragedy into something positive, to keep Mikayla’s light shining.” Kim, standing by his side, added, “Freya deserves to grow up knowing her mother’s incredible legacy. We’re committed to supporting her family and the animals Mikayla loved.”

The response was overwhelming. Social media erupted with hashtags like #MikaylasLegacy and #StopOnlineHate, as fans praised the couple’s generosity. Animal rescue organizations across the U.S., including KJ Farms in South Carolina, joined the cause, amplifying the fund’s reach. The Save A Fox YouTube channel announced a fundraising event inspired by Murray’s initiative, aiming to secure homes for the 500 foxes Mikayla had rescued.

This act of kindness has sparked a broader conversation about mental health and cyberbullying. Murray and Sears’ involvement has drawn attention to the need for accountability online, with many calling for stricter regulations on platforms hosting harmful content. As Ethan Frankcamp continues Mikayla’s work, he expressed gratitude, saying, “Mikayla would be so touched by Andy and Kim’s support. It gives us strength to keep going.”

In a world often divided, Andy Murray and Kim Sears have shown how compassion can bridge communities, from tennis courts to animal sanctuaries. Their tribute to Mikayla Raines ensures her legacy of love and resilience endures, offering hope to her family and the animals she cherished.