'It builds a level of perspective': Frances Tiafoe, Adrian Mannarino visit autism center in Almaty

ALMATY, Kazakhstan—Frances Tiafoe and Adrian Mannarino visited the inaugural Asyl Miras Autism Center in Almaty on Monday with the hope of putting smiles on faces. But when it came time to leave, the two were the ones left beaming from the impactful experience.

The special guests handed out presents and received original drawings as parting gifts inside the initial two rooms they visited. When the pair arrived for their final gathering, the American and Frenchman were instantly captivated by a mixed doubles duo.

“That’s my guy right there!” Tiafoe exclaimed as charming youngster Aibek made a point to greet everyone who entered with a personal handshake and warm “Salam Alaikum," an expression that wishes, “May the peace be upon you.”

Tiafoe later overheard a jubilant Aruna conversing with Mannarino as If they were longtime pals. Reacted the two-time US Open semifinalist, “That’s some English she’s speaking right there.”

Both players connected with Aibek and Aruna through developmental-focused games. In working with Aibek on the alphabet and characters, Tiafoe found himself enamored by the individual sitting to his right.

“That kid had way more personality than I do. And that says a lot, as I’ve got a wild personality,” smiled the Hyattsville. Md. native when reflecting on their interaction. “It’s fun for me, too. I’m gonna remember that as well.”

It builds a level of perspective. Sometimes it’s so easy to look inward at what you’re doing, complain about your life and things like that. Ultimately a lot of people have it way harder. Frances Tiafoe

Believes Mannarino, “I think it's pretty important for us whenever we get some free time to give back to other people and trying to share a little bit of happiness with them, share some good moments.”

There are currently 13 Asyl Miras Autism Centers across 12 regions in Kazakhstan. The project is the brainchild of the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation, and this year celebrates its 10th anniversary. Since launching with a mission to enhance the lives of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), efforts have provided free care, education and resources to 16,000 kids.

Expressed Tiafoe, “It builds a level of perspective. Sometimes it’s so easy to look inward at what you’re doing, complain about your life and things like that. Ultimately a lot of people have it way harder.”

In town for this week’s Almaty Open, where Tiafoe is the top seed and Mannarino is the defending champion from when the event was held in Astana in 2023, the ATP standouts watched a brief clip outlining the foundation’s history and upcoming initiatives. Brief remarks were made by foundation creator Bulat Utemuratov, foundation chairman of the board Almaz Sharman and foundation director Marat Aitmagambetov, where everyone in the room was reminded how much work is needed globally with understanding ASD to create a place that is truly one world for all.

“If we can make them have a nice day a little bit different with our company, it’s a great thing for us to do,” Mannarino said.

Asserted Tiafoe, “I love paying it forward to younger kids, whatever situation they’re in. That’s what counts.”