Recently, world-class tennis players had the opportunity to engage in a traditional Thai ceremony ahead of their participation in the “Allied Thailand Open 2024 Presented by Cal-Comp.” This WTA 250 tournament, set to take place at the Arena in Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan, offers a prize pool of $267,082 (approximately 10 million Baht) and will run from mid to late September 2024.
In the early morning, Alicia Barnett, a 30-year-old British tennis player ranked 195th in doubles, participated in a Buddhist alms-giving ceremony at Hua Hin Beach, near the InterContinental Hua Hin Resort. Barnett, who once reached a career-high ranking of 59 in doubles, offered food to monks in a symbolic gesture of good fortune. The serene beachfront, coupled with the fresh morning air, created a tranquil backdrop for the ceremony. Executives from APG also joined the activity. The tradition of giving alms along Hua Hin Beach is a hallmark of the city, often drawing the interest of both locals and international visitors.
It was reported that prior to the ceremony, Barnett was guided through the proper process of offering alms and received a blessing from the monks. This cultural experience was part of an initiative by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and tournament sponsors to introduce leading tennis players to Thai customs and the picturesque setting of Hua Hin. Known for its world-renowned status as a travel destination, Hua Hin offers visitors a glimpse into local traditions, making it a fitting venue for international events like the Thailand Open.
Following the alms-giving ceremony, Barnett appeared in high spirits, expressing her delight at participating in the activity. She briefly remarked, “I’m happy to have experienced Thai culture by giving alms, something I’ve never done before.” Afterward, she took a short walk along the calm shores of Hua Hin, enjoying the morning sun and peaceful atmosphere before heading back to prepare for the upcoming tournament.
Several officials and sponsors were also present at the event, reinforcing the significance of the occasion as both a cultural exchange and a precursor to one of Thailand’s premier tennis tournaments.
