Since its inception in 1987, no Thai professional has ever won the match. Indeed, the only victory came in 2001 through one of the popular twin sisters Naree Wongluekiet, then playing as an amateur. Naree and twin sister Aree, whose mother is Thai, have since opted for Korean citizenship as their father is Korean and are now living in the United States.

    Thailand's seasoned pro Rus-samee Gulyanamitta believes the time is ripe to correct the incongruity. She mentioned the presence of 17 Thai professionals who are bent on putting a stop to the drought.

    "We now have players who are capable of winning high-profile tournaments anywhere in the world. In terms of playing skills, there's little to separate our women professionals from other top professionals from the rest of the world. Perhaps we lack mental strength, consistency and a high competitive atmosphere, but I believe we'll see a Thai winner on Friday (the final day of competition)," Rus-samee was quoted by The Nation newspaper as saying.

    Apart from Rus-samee, Thailand has a number of rising women professional players like Pornanong Phatlum, Porani Chutichai, Nontaya Srisawang, Rungthiwa Pangjan, Titiya Plucksataporn and Walailak Satarak.

    "Thai women are now prepared to break onto the world scene. Porani has qualified to play in the Step Up Tour in Japan this year. Others like Tiranan Yoopan and Rungthiwa are heading to Japan to play in the Q-School this year, while Nontaya is all set to make her assault on the Futures Tour this season," said Rus-samee.

    However, Rus-samee admitted the Thais are not going to have an easy ride as South Korea's rookie professional of the year Shin Ji-yai, Hong Kong Ladies Masters winner Libby Smith of the United States and a host of other players such as Mika Kimura and Rie Shiraki, winner of the Guam Governor's Cup last week, Zimbab-we's Sharne Wild, China's Zhong Xiaolong could gatecrash a Thai celebration.

2007-03-07