Thailand’s sporting community received a playful nod from the Sports Reporters and Photographers Association of Thailand on January 1, 2026, with the proclamation of its annual nicknames for prominent figures-a tradition that distills a year of triumphs, challenges, and memorable moments into catchy monikers.
A Year of Recognition: From Ambassadors to Sprint Deities
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The association honored 12 individuals and organizations, celebrating their impact on Thai and international sports.
- Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul was named “Global Sports Ambassador” for her international sports leadership.
- Puripol Boonson earned the title “The 9-Second Sprint Deity” after breaking the 10-second barrier in the 100-meter sprint.
- Atthaya Thitikul was dubbed “The Irresistible Swing” for her continued dominance in women’s golf.
- Ratchanok Intanon received the nickname “Fired-up, Ageless May” for her SEA Games gold medal win.
- Dr. Gongsak Yodmani was recognized as “The Crisis Finisher” for successfully navigating the challenges of hosting the SEA Games.
Khunying Patama is widely praised for her ability to connect influential figures and resolve issues at both international and national levels, enhancing coordination and access for Thai sports organizations globally. She has also championed Thai culture, notably by greeting athletes with the conventional wai during medal ceremonies-a gesture now emulated by badminton players worldwide.
Breaking Barriers: A New Generation of Thai Athletes
Rising athletics star Puripol “Bew” Boonson was christened “The 9-Second Sprint Deity” after becoming the first athlete from Southeast Asia to complete the 100-meter sprint in under 10 seconds. His record-breaking time of 9.94 seconds, coupled with three gold medals at the moast recent SEA Games, signaled a turning point for Thai track and field.
World No.1 golfer Atthaya “Jeeno” Thitikul earned the nickname “The Irresistible Swing,” reflecting her continued dominance on the LPGA Tour. The 22-year-old has consistently broken records, securing multiple player-of-the-year awards and achieving the lowest average score in LPGA history.
Badminton icon Ratchanok “May” Intanon was dubbed “Fired-up, Ageless May” in recognition of her remarkable late-career resurgence. At 30 years old, she captured her first-ever women’s singles gold medal at the SEA Games and concluded her final appearance at the regional event with a total of two gold medals, demonstrating her enduring competitive spirit and resilience.
Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul. (Photo supplied)
Dr. Gongsak Yodmani, governor of the Sports Authority of thailand, was named “the Crisis Finisher” for successfully guiding Thai sport through a challenging year. While hosting the 33rd SEA Games, he confronted obstacles including budget limitations and venue management concerns. Despite intense scrutiny, the Games concluded with Thailand topping the medal table, solidifying his reputation as a results-oriented leader.
The association emphasized that the nicknames were designed to encapsulate both the successes and defining narratives of Thai sport in 2025-a year marked by historic achievements.
