Thai Tennis Team Eyes Billie Jean King Cup World Playoffs
Thailand's women's tennis team will compete in the 2026 Billie Jean King Cup World Group playoffs in Muang Thong Thani. The squad, led by world No. 63 Lalna Thararudi, was selected based on recent WTA rankings. The playoff marks Thailand's first appearance at this level in 12 years after winning the Asia/Oceania Group 1 earlier this year.
Suchai Pornchaisakudom, President of the Thailand Lawn Tennis Association, said the association will send a team to compete in the 2026 Billie Jean King Cup by Gainbridge women's World Group playoffs at the National Tennis Development Centre in Muang Thong Thani on November 21-22, 2026. To ensure smooth preparations, he announced the list of players selected for training and competition: (1) “Ruangkao” Lalna Thararudi, world No. 63 in singles; (2) “Mai” Mananchaya Sawangkaew, world No. 90; (3) “Omsin” Anchisa Chanta, world No. 498; (4) “Thae” Thatsorn Nakorn, world No. 513; and (5) “Earth” Peangtarn Plipuech, world No. 93 in doubles. The selection is based on the WTA world rankings as of October 4, 2026. Players must confirm participation by October 12, 2026, otherwise they forfeit their spot. Suchai added that earning this World Group playoff slot marks Thailand's first appearance in 12 years, following the women's team's victory in the 2026 Billie Jean King Cup by Gainbridge Asia/Oceania Group 1 held in New Delhi, India on April 11. He said the association is preparing to host the Swiss team, ensuring the venue and facilities are ready, and he is confident the match will be enjoyable.
