Karen Khachanov celebrated last year at the Almaty Open, winning his seventh ATP title. This opened many doors for him, and in the following months he continued his good form, finishing last year in the Top 20.
This year he returns to Kazakhstan as the tournament's seed, aiming to defend his title and show his qualities.
Before the start of the tournament, Khachanov, together with his colleague Fabian Marozsan, visited the Asyl Miras Autism Center.
They played games with the children, gave gifts and talked with them and the center's staff. Khachanov expressed his gratitude for this educational program and projects, emphasizing that they help children in their daily lives and socialization.
“In Kazakhstan, there are schools and education programs, but not really specialized ones for these children. That’s why this initiative is so important,” Khachanov told TENNIS.com.
“It helps the kids adapt, socialize, and eventually attend regular schools. I think that’s really valuable.”
Karen Khachanov and willingness to help
Khachanov is also the parent of two sons, and even before realizing how much children can be loved, the Russian tennis player notes that he enjoyed spending time with children. As a sportsman who achieved great success, Khachanov is aware that he can serve as an inspiration for children who have their own dreams and ambitions.
He stressed that it is important to help children with autism to integrate and socialize, because it benefits not only them, but also the entire society.
“Children with autism have different needs and stages of development, and I think it’s important not to separate them, but to help them integrate and socialize with others. That’s great not just for them, but for society in general—and not only here in Kazakhstan, but everywhere in the world.”
His openness and willingness to help not only children, but all members of society shows that he is not only a great tennis player, but also a great man.
