In 2022, Pasha had to leave Ukraine – and his father – when the war started. His love of sport helped him settle into his new life in the UK, in particular playing tennis and following his fellow Ukrainian Mykhailo Mudryk.
The 13-year-old wrote a letter to his hero, explaining: "At first, many things in England were unusual. It was sad and worrying to move to an unknown place and to leave my dad behind.
"When I saw you moved to Chelsea, I started rooting for you and your team. It is very cool that there is a Ukrainian player in the Chelsea team. I played a lot of tennis in Kyiv, it is my favourite sport. I know you like to play tennis."
When Chelsea and Mudryk saw the letter and heard Pasha’s story, they decided to organise a very special surprise.
Pasha thought he had been invited to an event to be interviewed and showcase his tennis skills, but Mudryk suddenly arrived to meet him in person.
"I was very surprised. I couldn't believe that he was there. I had the best day and really enjoyed it," said Pasha, who received a signed shirt from his hero.
Mudryk was impressed with Pasha's tennis ability, saying: "When Pasha grows up a little, we'll be supporting him."
