The women's tennis tournament PTT Pattaya Open was held annually in Pattaya from 1991 to 2015 and was one of the oldest WTA events in Asia. Although it no longer appears on the WTA calendar, its legacy remains a key part of Thailand’s sports heritage. The 23rd edition in 2014 concluded on February 2, with Russian player Maria Kirilenko claiming the title.
2014 Final: Kirilenko vs. Radwańska
In the final, Maria Kirilenko defeated Poland’s Agnieszka Radwańska 6–1, 6–3. This was her second Pattaya Open title (first in 2009) and one of her final major career victories.
The tournament was played on hard courts, with a prize purse of $220,000.
Russian Participation
Russian players were a strong presence at the event. Notable participants:
- Maria Kirilenko — champion in 2009 and 2014
- Elena Vesnina — finalist in 2012
- Ekaterina Makarova — competed in 2013 and 2014, reached quarterfinals
Makarova, though never a finalist, was a notable competitor. In 2014, she lost to Kirilenko in the third round.
About Ekaterina Makarova
Ekaterina Makarova (b. 1988) is a renowned Russian tennis player, primarily successful in doubles:
- One WTA singles title — Seoul (2010)
- Five Grand Slam doubles titles (including Australian Open and US Open)
- Participant in 2012 and 2016 Olympics
She competed in Pattaya Open, but never reached the final.
Other 2014 Contenders
Top players in 2014 included:
- Sabine Lisicki (Germany) — semifinalist
- Sorana Cîrstea (Romania) — main draw participant
- Lucie Šafářová (Czech Republic) — strong player, not Plíšková
Karolína Plíšková played in 2013 but did not compete in 2014.
Tournament Conclusion
The last PTT Pattaya Open was held in 2015. From 2016, it was replaced by the Malaysian Open, later succeeded by events in China and UAE.
Reasons:
- Reduced prize money
- Competition from other Asian tournaments
- WTA’s shifting regional strategy
Legacy of the Tournament
As of 2025, PTT Pattaya Open remains a symbol of:
- The growth of women’s sports in Thailand
- International recognition of Pattaya as a sports hub
- Support for young Thai tennis players via ITF events
Conclusion
Although the PTT Pattaya Open ended in 2015, its history is part of Thailand’s sporting past. The claim that Ekaterina Makarova won the 2014 final is inaccurate. However, Russian participation, especially by Maria Kirilenko, left a lasting impact. As of 2025, Thailand continues to develop tennis through junior tournaments, academies, and international exhibitions.
Sources:
— WTA Tour: Official Archives 2014
— Bangkok Post: «Kirilenko Wins Pattaya Title», February 2014
— The Nation: «The End of an Era: Pattaya Open Leaves WTA Calendar»
— ITF: «Women’s Tennis in Thailand – Development Report 2025»
— ESPN Tennis: «Career Stats – Ekaterina Makarova»
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