Billie Jean King Cup: 'Facilities in India are very good, getting better than before', says Thailand's Mananchaya Sawangkaew

IANS April 10, 2025 169 views

Thai tennis player Mananchaya Sawangkaew has been making significant strides at the Billie Jean King Cup Asia-Oceania Group 1 tournament in Pune. She has won both her matches convincingly, helping Thailand secure victories against Hong Kong and India. Sawangkaew praised the tournament's facilities and India's improving tennis infrastructure, noting the supportive team environment. Her performances highlight the growing competitiveness and camaraderie in international women's tennis.

"The facilities here are very good just like the WTA Mumbai Open. It's getting better than before" - Mananchaya Sawangkaew
Pune, April 10: Mananchaya Sawangkaew of Thailand has been making big waves in the Billie Jean King Cup Asia-Oceania Group 1, having won both of her matches so far at the prestigious tournament, organised by MSLTA in association with AITA and PMDTA, at the Mhalunge Balewadi Tennis Complex in Pune.

Key Points

1

Thai player wins crucial matches against Hong Kong and India

2

Highlights improving tennis infrastructure in India

3

Emphasizes team support and mental strength in competition

On the first day, Mananchaya helped Thailand in their 3-0 win over Hong Kong, China. She came from behind to win her tie 3-6, 6-3, 6-1 over Hong Yi Cody Wong to help her side begin their campaign on a strong note. She then carried on her momentum on the second day as Thailand took on hosts India. Mananchaya faced Sahaja Yamalapalli, whom she defeated 6-3, 6-7, 1-0 in a closely contested match.

About her experience playing in India, Manchaya said, "I've played in India since I was a junior, and I really love it. Sometimes , it's tough to play because it's humid, but I am getting used to it. The Indian players are getting really better, and I like playing here.”

Mananchaya recently played the WTA Mumbai Open 2025 in India, which was also organised by MSLTA. “The facilities here are very good just like the WTA Mumbai Open. It's getting better than before and I am always happy to come to India,” she added.

Reflecting more on the weather conditions, she said, “I have been playing the second match in the evening, so it has helped me a lot. I saw my teammates play the first match in the afternoon and noticed that the ball was very flat. When the sun is down, it's not that hot, and the ball stays on the court more, so it is better.”

Mananchaya also highlighted the importance of her team and the role they play in the tournament. "There is a lot of pressure in this tournament because we are playing for our country but we support each other a lot and help each other get relaxed. When representing the country, it is mostly about mental strength and the coach has helped me a lot in that. Everyone makes me smile and I love this team," she said.

About her opponent Sahaja, Mananchaya stated, "She played really well and has improved a lot from before. She fought hard for her country, but it was unfortunate that she had to retire. We didn’t want to finish like this but I hope she gets better and keeps fighting tomorrow."

Reader Comments

J
James K.
Mananchaya is such a class act! Love how she acknowledges her opponent's effort and wishes her well. That's true sportsmanship 👏 The Thailand team seems to have great chemistry too.
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Priya S.
As an Indian tennis fan, I'm so happy to hear positive feedback about our facilities! We've come a long way. Hope Sahaja recovers soon - she was putting up a great fight before retiring.
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Taylor R.
The humidity must be brutal out there 🥵 Interesting how she talks about the ball behaving differently at different times of day. Shows how much strategy goes into tennis beyond just hitting!
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Anika L.
While it's great to hear praise, I wish the article had more details about what specific improvements have been made to the facilities. Would help understand how Indian tennis infrastructure is evolving.
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Rajiv M.
Sawangkaew's performance has been impressive! Coming back from a set down against Hong Kong and then that marathon match against Yamalapalli. Thailand has a real rising star here 🌟
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Sophie T.
Love her positive attitude about playing in India. So refreshing when international players appreciate local conditions rather than just complaining. Hope this encourages more tournaments here!

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Billie Jean King Cup Tennis Mananchaya Sawangkaew India Tennis Thailand Tennis Pune Tournament
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