2 tennis players acquire Uzbek citizenship

Two promising tennis players, Laima Vladson and Aleksandra Barmicheva, have been granted Uzbek citizenship, the Uzbekistan Tennis Federation’s press service reported.

“This is a significant step for us. The arrival of athletes like Laima Vladson and Aleksandra Barmicheva will provide new momentum for the development of women’s tennis in Uzbekistan. Their achievements are an inspiration for the next generation,” the federation’s official statement said.

Eighteen-year-old Laima Vladson, previously representing Lithuania, is ranked among the world’s top 10 young female players according to the ITF and holds the 887th position in the WTA world rankings. She has consistently delivered strong results since her youth and is recognized as one of Europe’s most promising talents. Vladson also won the singles title at the W15 professional tournament held from June 9 to 15, 2025.

The other tennis player to receive Uzbek citizenship, 15-year-old Aleksandra Barmicheva, was the youngest participant in the ITF W15 Tashkent 2025 tournament. Born on July 25, 2010, Aleksandra has already demonstrated strong performances in international competitions, showing her high potential.

It is worth noting that earlier, 21-year-old Russian tennis player Maria Timofeeva had changed her sports citizenship from Russia to Uzbekistan.