Tennis Stars Karen Khachanov and Fabian Marozsan Visit Autism Center in Almaty
Visits by international tennis stars to Asyl Miras centers have become a cherished tradition of ATP tournaments held in Kazakhstan.
ATP 250 Almaty Open participants and world-renowned tennis players Karen Khachanov and Fabian Marozsan visited the Asyl Miras Autism Center in Almaty.
Visits by international tennis stars to Asyl Miras centers have become a cherished tradition of ATP tournaments held in Kazakhstan. The athletes showed great interest in the center’s work and learned about its programs that help children with autism spectrum disorders develop communication, learning, and independent living skills.
Last year’s Almaty Open champion Karen Khachanov and world No. 52 Fabian Marozsan joined several interactive and educational sessions, spoke with teachers and parents, and spent time with the children – drawing and playing developmental games together. For the young participants, the visit was a true celebration: the guests gave attention to every child, smiling, joking, and offering words of encouragement.
“For us, such meetings are not just part of the program – they are an important reminder that sport is meant to unite and inspire,” said Ainur Karbozova, Director of the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation. “We are deeply grateful to these world-class tennis players for their kindness and genuine interest in our work. This kind of attention helps society better understand that children with autism can grow and succeed when they receive timely support.”
The Bulat Utemuratov Foundation has been implementing its autism program for over ten years. During this time, 13 Asyl Miras centers have opened in 12 cities across Kazakhstan, providing free support to children with autism and their families. The centers implement six evidence-based programs focused on developing speech, social, and learning skills. Over the years, the centers have helped more than 17,000 children, most of whom have shown significant developmental progress.
Khachanov and Marozsan’s visit continued a long-standing tradition that brings together sport and philanthropy. Over the years, Asyl Miras centers have welcomed many global tennis stars, including Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz, Elena Rybakina, Felix Auger-Aliassime, Daniil Medvedev, Dominic Thiem, Alexander Bublik, Stanislas Wawrinka, Frances Tiafoe, and others.
