Armenian Tennis Federation hopeful about sport’s future
Although the Armenian Tennis Federation has been active for decades, it is entering a new era with the addition of two top-level female players to the national team: Elina Avanesyan, an Armenian tennis player ranked No. 159 by the WTA, and Alina Charaeva, a Russian tennis player representing Armenia who is ranked No. 108.
The Armenian Tennis Federation and the Keron Development Foundation have partnered to support the integration of Armenian tennis talent into the national team. The collaboration is focused on strengthening Armenia’s presence in international tennis while creating opportunities for the sport’s development and visibility in the country.
Since August 2024, Elina Avanesyan has represented Armenia in international tournaments through the Keron Development Foundation’s Talent Pool Program. She joined the Armenian women’s national team for the first time this year and helped Armenia earn promotion to Group II at the Billie Jean King Cup for the first time in 16 years.
The national team has also welcomed Alina Charaeva, who recently obtained Armenian citizenship with the support of the Keron Development Foundation. She is set to begin competing internationally under the Armenian flag in 2028.
Gevorg Karamanukyan, executive director and secretary-general of the Armenian Tennis Federation, also said Avanesyan’s first year representing the national team has already been highly successful. With a strong lineup of local and international professional matches throughout the year, the federation is looking ahead with optimism as the future of Armenian tennis appears increasingly promising.
During a press conference in Yerevan, Vanane Araktsyan, executive director of the Keron Development Foundation, said, “Although tennis is an individual sport, having these two athletes represent Armenia on the international stage is a significant opportunity for the country.”
From Sept. 3-9, Armenia hosted the two players, marking Alina Charaeva’s first visit to the country. During their visit, the players took part in a series of public and private events and initiatives aimed at inspiring the younger generation while connecting more closely with the country.
On Sept. 5, a free master class featuring both players was held for young athletes at the main sports complex in Tsaghkadzor. More than 200 children and tennis enthusiasts from Yerevan and regions across Armenia had the opportunity to take to the court alongside the two professional players, receive practical advice, ask questions and gain insight into the world of professional tennis.
The two players also spoke about what it means to represent Armenia on the international stage, describing it as “a pleasure” and emphasizing their goal of honoring the country. They spoke warmly about the master classes held during their visit, which gave them an opportunity to connect with and inspire the younger generation. “It is important for them to have role models they can look up to,” Charaeva said.
Avanesyan echoed this sentiment, adding, “These kids are the future. They could also play in the Olympics in the future and proudly represent their country.” Looking ahead, both players said they are determined to represent Armenia and bring home gold medals from the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Born and raised in Russia, both players are embracing a new chapter in their lives as members of the Armenian national team. They are even learning the Armenian language to take on the role of representing the country on the international stage.
Having players of this caliber on Armenia’s national team is about raising the profile of tennis in Armenia, inspiring the next generation and laying the groundwork for a stronger future for the sport.
Photos courtesy of the Keron Development Foundation
