Thailand’s Taekwondo team returned to Suvarnabhumi Airport on the evening of October 4 following their participation in the 20th Asian Games in Japan. They were greeted by Mr. Thanatit Raktabutr, Secretary-General of the Thailand Taekwondo Association, along with other officials and the athletes’ families.
Mr. Thanatit announced that the Thai Taekwondo team secured a total of one gold, one silver, and three bronze medals at the Asian Games. The gold medal was earned by Ballankhun, known as “Yu,” in the men’s 68 kg category. Bronze medals were awarded to Petchkarn Poolket, or “Im,” in the women’s 49 kg category, and Natkamon Wasana, or “Khanom Jeeb,” in the women’s 57 kg category. In the poomsae (forms) discipline, Nawin Pindasoot, or “Moo Ping,” claimed a silver medal in the men’s individual event, while Titariya Kaeo-Olarosu, or “Bai Por,” won a bronze medal in the women’s individual event.
The association commended the athletes for their commitment and effort, which contributed to their success. A special acknowledgment was given to Im, who competed and won a bronze medal after her father’s passing during training in Osaka prior to the Games. The association extended its sympathies and offered to organize a memorial service for her father on Monday, October 5.
Coach Che, the head coach of the Thai Taekwondo team, stated that their objective of securing at least one gold medal was achieved, maintaining the team’s winning streak since the 2010 Guangzhou Games. He noted the increased difficulty this year, with approximately 80% of the team being new athletes. He also highlighted the significance of the upcoming 2027 World Championships as a preparatory event for the 2028 Olympics.
Ballankhun expressed his satisfaction with successfully defending his title, despite a challenging start to the year. He stressed the importance of respecting all opponents and consistently performing at one’s best.
Im, the bronze medalist, shared her feelings of pressure due to the competitive field in her division, but she remained determined to perform well. She dedicated her medal to her family and expressed gratitude for the support received.
Khanom Jeeb, who won bronze in the women’s 57 kg category, remarked that she found this weight class more enjoyable than her previous one, as it allowed her to focus on building muscle rather than severe weight cutting. She also mentioned that her car, which was submerged during flooding at Rajamangala National Stadium, was undergoing repairs, and she expressed a wish for her father to purchase a new electric car for her.