Wave Wins Silver in Men’s 75 kg Weightlifting at Asian Games

Nagoya:"Wave" Weerapol Wichuma secured a silver medal in the men's 75 kg weight class at the 20th Asian Games, held in Nagoya, Japan, at the Nagoya City Trade and Industry Park on September 26, 2026. According to Thai News Agency, the competition featured Thai weightlifters vying for medals in two categories. In the men's 75 kg category, Weerapol, a silver medalist at the 2024 Paris Olympics, faced tough competition. During the snatch lift, he successfully lifted 155, 158, and 160 kg, tying with Indonesia's Abdullah Rahmat Erwin, while Ri Chong Song from North Korea lifted 162 kg. In the clean and jerk, Weerapol initially failed to lift 200 kg but succeeded on his second attempt and lifted 205 kg on his third attempt. However, the gold went to Erwin, who lifted 206 kg. Weerapol's combined total of 365 kg earned him the silver, while Ri Chong Song took bronze with 357 kg. Weerapol expressed satisfaction with his performance despite missing the gold. He acknowledged strong competitors and emphasized the need for improvement in his clean and jerk technique. He is set to compete in the World Weightlifting Championships in China in October as a qualifier for the 2028 Olympics. Major General Intarat Yodbangteuy, Honorary President of the International Weightlifting Federation, expressed disappointment over the missed opportunity for a gold medal but acknowledged the formidable competition from Indonesian athletes. He emphasized the need for strategic improvements to achieve future success. In the men's 70 kg category, Theerawat Ratphet faced challenges, finishing sixth with a total lift of 307 kg. He succeeded in lifting 137 kg in the snatch and achieved a personal best of 170 kg in the clean and jerk. Overall, Thai weightlifters have claimed two silver and two bronze medals at the games, showcasing strong performances in various weight categories.