From 15 to 20 September 2026, Dr. Orathai Phubunlap Gunaseelan, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the Royal Thai Embassy in Astana, together with the Embassy’s officials and staff, welcomed and supported the Thai National Tennis Team during their visit to Kazakhstan. The delegation was led by Colonel Wattana Janpaijit, Team Manager, and Dr. Thanakorn Srichaphan, Team Captain, and comprised national team players, coaches, and officials from the Lawn Tennis Association of Thailand under His Majesty’s Patronage. The Thai team travelled to Kazakhstan to compete against the Kazakhstan National Team in the 2026 Davis Cup World Group II tie.

                During the matches held on 18 and 19 September 2026 at the National Tennis Center - Beeline Arena in Astana, the Chargé d’Affaires a.i., together with officials and staff of the Royal Thai Embassy, attended the matches to support and cheer on the Thai National Tennis Team. The tie was closely contested. Despite trailing 0-2 after the first day, Thailand staged an impressive comeback, with Pruchya Isaro and Maximus Parapol Jones securing victory in the doubles, followed by Thailand’s No. 1 singles player Kasidit Samrej, who delivered an outstanding performance to defeat Alexander Shevchenko, then ranked World No. 93 and Kazakhstan’s top-ranked player. The victory brought Thailand level at 2-2 before the team narrowly lost the deciding match, concluding the tie with Kazakhstan prevailing 3-2 overall.

               On this occasion, the Chargé d’Affaires a.i., hosted a dinner in honour of the Thai delegation, including the players, coaches, and team officials, at the Ambassador’s Residence. In her remarks, the Chargé d’Affaires a.i., commended the players, coaches, and officials for representing Thailand with dedication and to the best of their abilities, while demonstrating determination, teamwork, and sportsmanship throughout the competition. The participation of the Thai National Tennis Team in the Davis Cup not only showcased the capabilities of Thai tennis players on the international stage, but also contributed to strengthening people-to-people ties and sports cooperation between Thailand and Kazakhstan, while further enhancing awareness of Thailand and fostering a positive image of the country among the people of Kazakhstan.

Photo credit: Lawn Tennis Association of Thailand Under His Majesty’s Patronage