It's better to put money on young than on stars

What a contradictory scenario to what the Lawn Tennis  Association of Thailand (LTAT) has promised: a new Paradorn Srichaphan and a second Tamarine.

Year after year and press interview after interview, we have heard the old stories bragged by all those LTAT VIPs about their priority to produce the next stars. Instead it appears we are either going nowhere or moving backwards because not only we still have the same old faces as the country’s No 1 players but also seriously lack new promising ones especially in the men’s category.

After Danai who is No 208 in the world, none is inside the top 500. Even the country’s No 2 Kittipong Wachiramanowong, who a few years ago was touted as the successor of Paradorn, is nowhere near the expectations and still finished the season at only No 518 after three years on the ITF circuit. Peerakiat Siriluethaiwattana is the other Thai in the top 800, and might give it a try a few more years before giving up just like many before him.

So, what is wrong with Thai tennis? We have so many young players chasing their dreams at the junior level but they could merely win a match or two in the ITF Men’s Futures, much less have a shot at the ATP qualifying draw. These kids, if appropriately trained and given motivation, should be good enough to, at least, compete on the Challenger tour and roll the dice on some ATP events.

But first thing first, the LTAT must organise a lot more ITF Futures and Challengers at home. We had fewer than 15 men’s and women’s ITF Futures combined with just one Challenger this year. Italy, alone, hosts several dozen of Futures tournaments that spanned almost the entire calendar year which explains why a number of “Signore” and “Signorinas” are on the world rankings.

Why is it necessary to have these events at home? Evidently it’s the cheapest to play within the boundaries of the Kingdom because each away tour requires big budget, the further the bigger. Frankly, there is no sponsor in Thailand which is willing to cover all expenses for athletes and in some cases for coaches too to travel some 24 overseas trips a year. Imagine how much can be saved if there are enough number of local ITF tournaments for players to climb up the rankings.

Home advantage is the key to progress. There is no place like home. Locals are used to the weather and court conditions and importantly do not have to worry about food. They get that extra inspiration when family, friends and fans are watching and giving them support. Let’s not forget that mental aspect is as significant as individual ability. Just like when a homesick player confronts an opponent cheered on by his parents and loved ones, who will you bet money on.

Therefore, instead of bringing superstar players for an exhibition that the LTAT is attempting to make it an annual affair, it’s wiser to put the money on small Future events which can pave the way for Thai players to pursue their goals. If we have to spend Bt20 million for one friendly, the same amount of money can cover more than 30 Futures tournaments.

Imagine how many stars can we produce if our country hosts ITF circuits the whole year. How many chances we would let slip if huge money is spent on a one-day event when it can be used far more beneficially for our youngsters for a one year span. Think LTAT, think. Seriously!