Felix Auger-Aliassime channels tennis victories into education programs in Togo while preparing for his eighth U.S. Open appearance.
Montreal Star Eyes Both Court and Community Wins
Canadian tennis standout Felix Auger-Aliassime will compete in his eighth consecutive U.S. Open main draw beginning Aug. 18 in New York. At just 25 years old, the Montreal native has already earned seven ATP Tour titles and an Olympic bronze medal. But while victories matter, he says his greatest impact comes far from the spotlight—through education initiatives in his father’s homeland of Togo.
How His Roots Shape His Drive
Auger-Aliassime’s father, Sam, immigrated to Canada from Togo in the late 1990s, instilling in his son the values of perseverance and discipline. “He gave me all the right tools: hard work, curiosity, work ethic,” Auger-Aliassime explained. These lessons helped fuel his belief that he could not only become a professional tennis player but also compete with the world’s best.
Linking Tennis to Change
In 2020, Auger-Aliassime launched #FAAPointsForChange, pledging to donate $5 for every point he wins in a match. The initiative supports education and child protection programs in Togo, helping hundreds of children access better schooling. The program has recently expanded to offer university scholarships, giving young adults opportunities his father could only dream of decades earlier.
Why Togo Matters
The tennis star regularly visits Togo to connect directly with the youth his program benefits. “He tells me stories as a kid but it never matches what you can see with your own eyes,” Auger-Aliassime said of his father’s upbringing. Experiencing the community firsthand, he added, deepened his respect for his father’s determination to succeed and his own responsibility to give back.
Career Milestones Alongside Philanthropy
Auger-Aliassime’s career highlights include his 2024 Paris Olympic bronze medal in mixed doubles with Canadian partner Gabby Dabrowski, an achievement he described as “unexpected and unbelievable.” Off the court, he celebrated another personal milestone by announcing his engagement to long-time partner Nina Ghaibi last year.
Focus on the U.S. Open
As the U.S. Open runs Aug. 18 to Sept. 8, Auger-Aliassime is chasing the thrill that first drove him to the sport—the challenge of competition. “The stress before a match, when it goes your way and you win, it’s the best feeling,” he said. Whether in New York or in Togo, the Canadian remains motivated by the same principle: turning passion into purpose.
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