Dechawat Poomjaeng, Thailand's top player on the world professional snooker circuit, signed a one-year sponsorship contract with Singha Cooperation yesterday.
Dechawat Poomjaeng, right, and Singha executive Jaturon Himathongkam.
The contract will see the 36-year-old cueist through the 2015-2016 season.
"I am really grateful for their support. Now, I'll have more time to focus on my game," said the Saraburi native, ranked 43rd in the world.
"My target is to be among the top 32 in the world by the end of the season and, after that, I will be attempting to make it to the top 16 elite club."
Dechawat, the 2010 world amateur champion, added that although the Billiard Sports Association of Thailand (BSAT) is supported by one of Singha's rival beverage companies, he had to go for the deal.
"The association understands the players' situation because it knows how difficult it is to raise sponsorship. Each year, I need about two million baht to take part in professional events around the world,'' he said.
Starting his season in August, Dechawat plans to play in 18-20 tournaments and is targeting to make his second appearance in the world snooker championship final stage at the Crucible after making it to the last 16 in 2013.
Jaturon Himathongkam, Singha Corporation's marketing director for international sports, said the support from the company would be a boost for Dechawat to pursue his career.
"It is an individual sport and I believe he has enough potential to grow," said Jaturon. "It is a one-year contract but we will extend it if his performance is satisfactory."