Recognising the growing enthusiasm for tennis in Thailand and the resurgence of interest in the sport, the Thai Senior Tennis Association (TSTA) is proud to organise the 76th edition of the “Thailand Tennis Championship.” This prestigious event aims to promote and develop tennis while identifying exceptional talent within the senior tennis community. The highlight of the tournament will be the presentation of the Royal Trophy by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn to the deserving champions.
Ms. Supanavit Eiamsakulrat, Chief Executive Officer of KE Group Co., Ltd, expressed, “Tennis has seen a steady rise in popularity recently, appealing to people of all ages and genders. Its numerous physical and mental benefits, including improved fitness, mental well-being, focus, teamwork, and sportsmanship, have contributed to this growth. The Thailand Tennis Championship 2023 is a marquee event uniting senior tennis athletes from Thailand and beyond. It will take place on the hard courts in two categories:
- Singles Category: Scheduled from December 2-5, 2023, at the indoor FBT Sports Park in Ladkrabang. Men and women from age groups 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, and 60, along with additional categories for men aged 65, 70, and 75.
- Doubles Category: Set for December 9-11, 2023, at the Crystal Sports Ekamai-Ramindra, an indoor tennis court. It will include both women’s and men’s doubles in age groups 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, with additional categories for men aged 65, 70, 75, and 80. Mixed doubles categories, with combined ages of 80, 100, 115, and 130, will also be featured, with registrations closing on December 3rd.
Ms. Supanavit added, “Following the main event, there will be a week-long competition for association members with the highest accumulated points in each skill category, known as the ‘Thailand Masters Championship.’ These back-to-back events will span three weeks in the final month of this year, offering a total prize pool exceeding 1 million baht.”
In line with international standards, the TSTA has adjusted the eligibility criteria for senior tennis players to align with the regulations of the International Tennis Federation (ITF). Players aged 30 and above can now compete, expanding opportunities for senior athletes. Previously, competition began at the age of 35. This change also allows players aged 30-34 to participate, providing them with the chance to showcase their skills in this esteemed tournament.
Mr. Sornchai Suneta, Executive Vice President, Investment Office and Product Function and Executive Vice President, CIO Office – SCB, commented, “As a leading financial institution in Thailand, SCB is committed to strengthening the business sector and contributing to the country’s robust and sustainable economic growth. Our mission extends to societal contributions, and we are proud to support senior tennis competition to encourage people of all ages and genders to prioritise physical exercise, fostering both physical and mental well-being. We believe in nurturing individuals who possess not only physical fitness but also qualities such as sportsmanship, resilience, humility, and respect for international rules and regulations. We hope that all participating athletes will contribute to the development of tennis, shaping a new generation of players who will enhance Thailand’s global reputation.”
Mr. Paradorn “Ball” Srichaphan, former No. 1 Thai men’s tennis player and the highest-ranked Asian male tennis player in history, expressed his enthusiasm and unwavering commitment to tennis’s growth in Thailand. He acknowledged the rising talent within the tennis community and praised the supportive environment, particularly for senior players aged 30 and above. The association has implemented policies to organise skill-enhancement activities, providing technical training and tactics to its members, ultimately enhancing their abilities and skills.
Ms. Tamarine “Tammy” Tanasugarn, former No.1 women’s tennis player in Thailand and world no. 19, currently serving as a committee member of the TSTA, emphasised the benefits of starting tennis at a young age, highlighting its role in building fundamental skills and fostering overall development. She stressed that adults interested in taking up tennis can start at any age, noting that many players have successfully begun and excelled in the sport as adults. Competing in tournaments and receiving awards are attainable outcomes, dependent on training, skill development, and progress. The key factor is the promotion of both physical and mental well-being through active participation in tennis.
Mr. Terapong Ounruen, a committee member of the TSTA and a former Director of Strategy and Budget Management at the Office of Small and Medium Enterprise Promotion (OSMEP), and as a senior tennis player who has competed in nearly every event, said, “The association’s committee and working team are fully prepared to organise this competition. Additionally, the TSTA plays a significant role in hosting annual tennis competitions for the national sports scene, including National Senior Games, Thailand Open, and Masters Games.”
Official main partners for the Thai National Tennis Championship, competing for the Royal Trophy, include Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) Public Company Limited, PTT Public Company Limited, Energy Absolute Public Company Limited, Vongsayam Korsang Co., Ltd., Government Savings Bank, Thai Dairy Industry Co., Ltd., Siam Daikin Sales Company Limited, Modernform Group Public Company Limited, Sky ICT Public Company Limited, PPS Asset Management Company Limited, Crystal Sports, and Smash It Tennis Academy.
The TSTA actively promotes, supports, and advocates for continuous tennis activities. They endorse tournament organisers by certifying accumulated scores, encouraging an increase in the number of players, and creating diverse playing opportunities across different categories in line with the association’s main goal. Their aim is to campaign for the widespread popularity of tennis in Bangkok, surrounding provinces, and nationwide, including international players residing in Thailand. This effort seeks to stimulate significant interest, showcasing the potential of tennis players who come together to compete.
Join us in cheering and encouraging the tennis athletes participating in the most significant tennis competition of 2023. Witness players from various age groups, including those with established reputations since their youth and emerging talents entering the Thai tennis industry. The competition aims to determine the ultimate champions of Thai tennis in every round, seeking the overall winners. Let’s collectively enhance the joy of tennis enthusiasts while promoting physical and mental well-being.
