Armenia Adds Another Top Women’s Tennis Player as Alina Charaeva Joins the National Team

Armenia is adding another ranked player to its women’s tennis program, with Alina Charaeva set to compete under the Armenian flag in international tournaments.

Charaeva, 24, has received Armenian citizenship with support from the Keron Development Foundation and the Armenian Tennis Federation, the foundation said. She has also joined Keron’s Talent Pool Program, which works to bring international experience and high-level talent into Armenia.

Born in Samara, Russia, Charaeva began playing tennis at age 5 and built her career through the junior and professional circuits. She is currently ranked No. 118 in the WTA rankings and previously reached No. 12 in the ITF junior rankings. She has also played in Grand Slam qualifying rounds.

Her move gives Armenia another visible name in women’s tennis after Elina Avanesyan, who also received Armenian citizenship with Keron’s support. Avanesyan later became the first Armenian woman to enter the WTA Top 40 and helped Armenia advance in the Billie Jean King Cup.

“I have deep love and endless gratitude for my home and where I come from. It has shaped me into the athlete I am today,” Charaeva said. “At the same time, I am incredibly excited to announce a new beginning in my career: I am officially representing Armenia. This transition represents an opportunity to grow as a tennis player, but most importantly as a person. I am truly honored to step onto the court under the Armenian flag and cannot wait to see what this new journey brings.”

Keron said its Talent Pool Program now includes 10 professionals, two athletes and one sports duo across sports, culture, education, health care and regional development.

For Armenia, Charaeva’s arrival strengthens a women’s tennis program that has already gained international attention through Avanesyan’s rise.

—

Support independent reporting from the region by subscribing to The Armenian Report. Our team is funded solely by readers like you.