Toyohashi:Yu Ballang Thapthimdaeng, a talented 21-year-old Thai taekwondo fighter, secured the gold medal in the men's 68kg event at the 2026 Asian Games by defeating Iran's Mahdi Haji 2-0 in rounds. This victory marks the Thai team's 18th gold medal at the games.
According to Thai News Agency, Ballang's triumphant performance in the final saw him initially win the first round 6-5, utilizing counter kicks effectively against his opponent. In the second round, he strategically scored to lead 3-2, ensuring his victory and a consecutive gold medal win.
In other events, Thai athlete Natthakamon Wasana, aged 18, reached the semi-finals in the women's under 57 kg taekwondo category but fell to Jordan's Fadia Khirfan, earning a bronze medal. The head coach of the Thai team, "Coach Che" Chatchai Che, expressed satisfaction with their achievement of one gold and two bronze medals in sparring, alongside one silver and one bronze in Poomsae events.
"Im" Patcharakarn Poolkird won bronze in the women's 49 kg category despite personal tragedy, highlighting her dedication to representing Thailand. In sailing, "Pin" Pinchonok Klaysomboon excelled in the ILCA4 junior women's competition, winning gold and marking Thailand's second sailing gold medal at these games.
In jiu-jitsu, Orapa Senatham clinched gold in the women's under 63kg category, marking Thailand's first Asian Games gold in this sport. The Thai Olympic Committee President, Mr. Pimol Srivikrom, praised the team's performance, which exceeded expectations by securing 18 gold medals, surpassing their target of 14-15.
China leads the overall medal tally with 166 gold medals, while Japan and South Korea follow. Thailand currently ranks sixth with 18 gold medals, 13 silver, and 20 bronze medals.