Diana Ivanikhina – From Orphan to International Athlete and Missionary

Diana Ivanikhina is an international student, a tennis superstar, and a young woman whose journey from adversity to hope is a testament to God’s faithfulness.

After her father abandoned the family and her mother faced financial difficulties before suddenly passing away, Diana and her brother were placed in a Christian children’s home in Tajikistan. There, Diana encountered the love of Jesus and began placing her trust in Him. While adjusting to her new reality, she poured herself into academics, Bible studies, and a newfound passion for tennis.

Without access to a professional coach, Diana turned to YouTube for guidance. What started as a self-taught summer hobby soon became an intense, six-hour daily training regimen. Her dedication led her to compete for the Tajikistan Tennis Federation, play internationally, and even coach other children.

Diana’s story took another extraordinary turn when she met American businessman and fellow believer David McKee. Touched by her perseverance and passion for both tennis and spreading the Gospel, McKee helped Diana pursue her dream of studying in the United States. Despite numerous hurdles, his sacrificial support enabled her to receive a tennis scholarship from Bowling Green State University in Ohio. However, God’s plan for Diana’s journey was not complete.

Through connections made at First Baptist Church in Bowling Green after a snowy four-mile walk on her first Sunday in the U.S., Diana found her way to Cedarville University, where her love for tennis, her love for worship, and her desire to become a career missionary have perfectly aligned.

This is a powerful story of faith, perseverance, and the ways God blesses those who trust in Him, even in the face of overwhelming challenges.

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