In a strategic move to bolster tennis development across Southeast Asia, the Lawn Tennis Association of Thailand (LTAT) has granted wild card entries to two young Singaporean players—Audrey Tong and Eva Marie Desvignes—for the ongoing ITF Women’s World Tennis Tour in Muang Thong Thani.
This initiative is part of LTAT’s broader effort to support emerging talent from ASEAN member countries, providing them with access to international competition and high-performance exposure.
The tournament, held at the National Tennis Development Centre from 17 to 30 March, is one of several events under the ITF banner aimed at grooming the next generation of professional players.
Eighteen-year-old Audrey Tong and 16-year-old Eva Marie Desvignes represent Singapore’s rising tennis cohort. Their participation reflects the strengthening of regional ties in sport, particularly as countries prepare for the 33rd SEA Games in December 2025.
According to LTAT officials, the decision to offer wild cards to neighbouring countries stems from a commitment to elevate the standard of tennis throughout the ASEAN region. “Providing international match experience is essential to raising competitive levels and inspiring growth across borders,” an LTAT representative stated.
Audrey Tong, who competed in the 2023 SEA Games in Cambodia, expressed her appreciation for the opportunity. “It’s really valuable to be able to compete here in Thailand. Every match teaches me something new and prepares me for future tournaments, especially the SEA Games,” she said.
Audrey is the daughter of Edwin Tong, Singapore’s Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, and Minister for Sport. She began playing tennis at the age of seven and has since risen through Singapore’s national tennis ranks.
Singapore last won a SEA Games medal in tennis eight years ago, when Stefanie Tan secured a bronze.
Audrey pointed to Tan, now a coach, as a continuing influence on the younger generation of players.
“Coach Stef has always been someone we look up to. She’s helping us believe that we can go further,” Audrey added.
Eva Marie Desvignes, currently ranked 243rd in the ITF junior world rankings, also welcomed the chance to return to Thailand.
She previously won an ITF Junior tournament at the same venue in 2022. With two junior titles to her name, she is widely regarded as one of Singapore’s top tennis prospects.
“I’ve had good memories playing here, and I’m really excited to be back. These opportunities help me test myself against international opponents and improve my game,” Eva shared.
The ITF Tour is not only a proving ground for talent but also a reflection of growing sports diplomacy within ASEAN.
LTAT’s decision to include players from neighbouring countries underscores Thailand’s leadership role in fostering regional sports development.
While Thailand’s own top-ranked players, such as Kasidit Samrej, also feature prominently in the tournament, the inclusion of foreign wild card entries represents a shift towards a more inclusive and collaborative approach to talent development.
As the countdown to the SEA Games continues, both Thailand and Singapore are working to build squads capable of achieving podium finishes.
The collaboration between national federations through tournaments like this signals a positive direction for regional tennis growth.
Observers have noted that ASEAN sports bodies are increasingly using international events not just for competition, but as platforms for shared development, training exchanges, and long-term athlete progression.
For Audrey and Eva, the experience gained in Muang Thong Thani could prove vital as they aim to bring Singapore back onto the SEA Games tennis medal table.
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