Thai No.1 and young Singaporean players gear up for SEA Games 2025.
Thailand’s top-ranked tennis player, Kasidit Samrej, is set to compete in the ITF Men’s World Tennis Tour at Muang Thong Thani, marking another milestone in his impressive career. This tournament holds special significance as it leads up to the highly anticipated 33rd SEA Games in December 2025, where Thai athletes are determined to continue their gold-medal legacy in tennis.
ASEAN Tennis Development: LTAT’s Wild Card Initiative
In a bid to elevate tennis in the ASEAN region, the Lawn Tennis Association of Thailand (LTAT) has granted wild card entries to promising young players from neighboring countries. This initiative provides valuable international exposure, helping these rising stars refine their skills and gain competitive experience on a global stage.
Among the selected talents are Singaporean players Audrey Tong (18) and Eva Marie Desvignes (16), who are competing in the ITF Women’s World Tennis Tour at the National Tennis Development Centre in Muang Thong Thani (March 17-30, 2025). Audrey, a SEA Games veteran, and Eva, currently ranked 243rd in the junior world rankings, have already made waves in Singapore’s tennis scene. Eva has clinched two ITF Junior tournament titles, including a victory in Muang Thong Thani in 2022.
Audrey Tong: A Rising Star with Strong Tennis Roots
Audrey Tong is the daughter of Edwin Tong, Singapore’s Minister for Culture, Community, and Youth, and Minister for Sport. She began playing tennis at age seven, encouraged by her parents, and is now determined to gain more international experience. Audrey emphasized that Singapore is striving for success at the SEA Games, aiming to end an eight-year medal drought in tennis—the last being Stefanie Tan’s bronze. She also highlighted Stefanie’s ongoing role in mentoring the next generation of Singaporean players, inspiring them to achieve greater success.
Kasidit Samrej: Thailand’s Tennis Trailblazer
Meanwhile, Kasidit Samrej continues to make history as Thailand’s leading tennis player. Earlier this year, he became the first Thai player in 13 years to advance to the main draw of a Grand Slam at the Australian Open, where he faced world number 8 Daniil Medvedev in an electrifying five-set match. His participation in the ITF tournament at Muang Thong Thani further cements his role as a driving force in Thai tennis.
A Bright Future for ASEAN Tennis
The presence of Kasidit, Audrey, and Eva in these prestigious tournaments highlights the ongoing efforts to develop tennis talent in Southeast Asia. With initiatives like LTAT’s wild card program and growing regional participation, the future of ASEAN tennis looks promising, setting the stage for an exciting SEA Games 2025 and beyond.
Stay tuned for more updates on the ITF Men’s and Women’s World Tennis Tour and the rising stars shaping the future of the sport in Thailand and across ASEAN.