Andreescu set to play in Hua Hin

Former US Open champion Bianca Andreescu has confirmed her participation in the Thailand Open, which will be held at True Arena Hua Hin Sports Club from Jan 30-Feb 5, the organisers said yesterday.

Suwat Liptapanlop, who is the honorary chairman of the Lawn Tennis Association of Thailand (LTAT), said all arrangements have been made for the US$250,000 WTA International Series Tournament.

"Right now, we are ready for the tournament," said Suwat, adding: "The courts have been renovated and approved by the WTA already.

"Several players taking part in the Australian Open in Melbourne now, like 2020 Thailand Open winner Magda Linette from Poland who has reached the semi-finals at the first grand slam of the year, will join the tournament in Hua Hin as well.

"Besides Linette, Canadian Bianca Andreescu, the 2019 US Open champion who is currently ranked No.43 in the world, has also confirmed her participation in the Thailand Open 2023 as a wild-card player. We can look forward to a great event in Hua Hin this year."

Thai wild-cards

Suwat added that the tournament organisers have also decided to grant wild-card places to Thai players Luksika Kumkhum, Chompoothip Jundaket and Aunchisa Chanta in the singles event and to Peantarn Plipuech in the doubles competition.

"Another talented Thai player to earn a wild card place in the main draw is 18-year-old Lanna Tararudee.

"Lanna is a bright prospect with a great future and is expected to do well at the international level very soon.

"The Thailand Open is a very popular tournament and it is once again expected to help boost tourism which plays an important role in generating the much-needed revenue for the country."