ACWA Power and Uzbekistan Tennis Federation Join Forces to Combat Loneliness Among the Elderly

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A unique and innovative social initiative has launched in Uzbekistan, using tennis as a means to strengthen intergenerational connections and address the growing issue of loneliness among the elderly.

The "Generations United" Tennis Festival is the first project of its kind in the country. Its goal is to bring together young people and older citizens through regular sports and educational activities. The opening of the series took place on 25 October at the Matonat Sports Complex in Tashkent.

The program included a doubles round-robin tournament and masterclasses for players of different ages and skill levels, with around 40 participants taking part.

Studies conducted globally and in Uzbekistan show that the share of elderly people living alone in major cities is steadily increasing. According to research by the Tashkent State Dental Institute, 45% of the capital’s elderly residents live alone, with limited opportunities for social interaction.

Loneliness is directly linked to declining physical and mental health, increased risk of depression and anxiety disorders, and weakened cardiovascular and immune systems. Scientific data confirms that participation of older adults in social and community activities significantly enhances their quality of life.

Intergenerational interaction plays a special role: it strengthens the sense of purpose among older people, expands topics of conversation, promotes physical activity and digital skills, and helps reduce age-related stereotypes in society. Tennis, as an accessible and social sport, is ideal for fostering such connections.

Participants had the opportunity to meet prominent veterans of Uzbek tennis, including Samuk Abidov and Yuri Kolesnichenko, who shared lessons on perseverance, confidence, and self-development—values passed from older to younger generations.

"Today the courts are a true celebration of sport. Seeing players of all ages here reminds us what makes tennis special: it unites people regardless of age. Our veterans are playing alongside juniors, sharing their experience and energy, and inspiring the next generation of athletes who represent our future," said Samuk Abidov, Director of the Republican Olympic Reserve Tennis School.

The initiative was spearheaded by the Saudi company ACWA Power, one of the largest investors in Uzbekistan’s renewable energy sector, in partnership with the Uzbekistan Tennis Federation.

The main aim of the initiative is to demonstrate that sport can be not only a pastime but also a tool for positive social change.

"Tennis is a sport for life: it helps people stay active, social, and engaged at any age. The Guinness World Records even notes Leonid Stanislavsky, who played tennis at 97. At ACWA Power, we believe that human capital is our greatest asset, and our responsibility extends to the entire community in which we operate. We care for children, adults, and the elderly, which is why our corporate insurance covers not only our team members but also their parents and children. Supporting initiatives like the Generations United Tennis Series reflects this philosophy. Tennis also instills important life skills—discipline, respect, and sportsmanship. Uniting generations through sport in Uzbekistan has been truly inspiring for us," said John Zaidi, General Director of ACWA Power in Uzbekistan.

The launch of the "Generations United" festival is part of ACWA Power’s corporate social responsibility strategy aimed at developing human capital and strengthening intergenerational ties. The Uzbekistan Tennis Federation serves as a key partner in the program.

For many years, the Federation has actively promoted tennis in the country, expanding access for children and adults and organizing national and international competitions.

The festival involved participants across three age groups: youth (13+), adults (25+), and seniors (50+). Participants took to the courts not to compete, but to socialize, exchange experiences, and enjoy the game.

"Partnership with ACWA Power is a prime example of how sport can unite different sectors of society. The company is not only a reliable investor, playing a key role in transforming Uzbekistan’s energy sector, but also a socially responsible partner that values community initiatives, including the development of tennis in our country. Through this partnership, we are not only advancing tennis as a professional sport but also creating a platform for social projects, youth education, and promoting a healthy lifestyle. Today, tennis in Uzbekistan is more than just sport; it is a tool for mutual understanding, generational integration, and strengthening national values," emphasized Aziz Hamidov, Deputy Chairman of the Uzbekistan Tennis Federation.

Following the successful launch, ACWA Power and the Uzbekistan Tennis Federation confirmed their intention to continue the "Generations United" festival, with the next event scheduled for early 2026.