Who are the most popular athletes from Thailand?
From badminton courts to the boxing ring, who stands out the most in the Land of Smiles?
Discover the most popular athletes from Thailand, and learn how they’ve made a significant impact in their respective fields.
Also check out our post about the most popular soccer players from Thailand.
Most popular athletes from Thailand:
- Buakaw Banchamek
- Paradorn Srichaphan
- Ratchanok Intanon
- Teerasil Dangda
- Boonsak Ponsana
- Yodsanklai Fairtex
- Nichkhun Buck Horvejkul
- Sorn Seavmey
- Panipak Wongpattanakit
- Chanathip Songkrasin
- Sudaporn Seesondee
- Nuttapong Ketin
Table of Contents
#1 Buakaw Banchamek
- 🏆 Sport(s): Muay Thai
- 🎂 Born in: 1982
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 2-time K-1 World MAX Champion
Buakaw Banchamek, one of the most renowned Muay Thai fighters globally, has made a significant impact on the sport with his powerful striking techniques and phenomenal agility. His success in Muay Thai and kickboxing has brought international attention to Thailand’s martial arts scene.
Apart from his in-ring accomplishments, Buakaw’s philanthropic endeavors and humble attitude have earned him admiration and respect from fans worldwide.
#2 Paradorn Srichaphan
- 🏆 Sport(s): Tennis
- 🎂 Born in: 1979
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Highest ATP Ranking: World No. 9
Paradorn Srichaphan, the most successful Thai tennis player to date, blazed a trail for future generations of players from Thailand. His powerful groundstrokes and aggressive playstyle won him accolades and fans worldwide.
Paradorn is also a role model off the court, regularly engaging in charity work and remaining a beloved figure in Thailand.
#3 Ratchanok Intanon
- 🏆 Sport(s): Badminton
- 🎂 Born in: 1995
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 3-time Badminton World Championships medalist
Ratchanok Intanon, a badminton powerhouse from Thailand, has distinguished herself with her impeccable court coverage and impressive shot-making. Her success on the international stage has inspired many young badminton players in Thailand.
In addition to her on-court accolades, Ratchanok has been recognized for her sportsmanship and dedication to the sport.
#4 Teerasil Dangda
- 🏆 Sport(s): Soccer
- 🎂 Born in: 1988
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 5 Thai League 1 Titles
Teerasil Dangda, widely regarded as one of Thailand’s most exceptional soccer talents, has made a name for himself with his sharp goal-scoring abilities and intelligent play. His accolades at both the domestic and international levels have contributed to the growth of soccer’s popularity in Thailand.
Teerasil is also well known for his humility and professionalism, making him a fan favorite and an inspiration to aspiring soccer players.
#5 Boonsak Ponsana
- 🏆 Sport(s): Badminton
- 🎂 Born in: 1982
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 1-time Badminton World Championships medalist
Boonsak Ponsana, one of Thailand’s most popular badminton players, has had a long and successful career on the international stage. His speed, agility, and excellent defensive skills have made him a tough competitor to face.
Off the court, Boonsak is lauded for his sportsmanship and contributions to the growth and development of badminton in Thailand.
#6 Yodsanklai Fairtex
- 🏆 Sport(s): Muay Thai
- 🎂 Born in: 1985
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Multiple-time World Champion
Yodsanklai Fairtex, a dominant force in Muay Thai and kickboxing, has made a significant impact on the global martial arts scene with his varied skill set and relentless drive. As one of the most successful fighters of his generation, Yodsanklai has inspired countless fans and aspiring athletes to follow in his footsteps.
In addition to his in-ring accomplishments, Yodsanklai’s dedication to training and commitment to excellence have earned him admiration from fans and peers alike.
#7 Nichkhun Buck Horvejkul
- 🏆 Sport(s): Bowling
- 🎂 Born in: 1988
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 2012 Thailand National Youth Bowling Champion
Nichkhun Buck Horvejkul, better known for his singing and acting career, is also a notable figure in the Thai bowling scene. With a passion for the sport, he has notched a national championship, showcasing his determination and skill both on and off the entertainment stage.
Apart from his bowling accomplishments, Nichkhun’s extensive work in the entertainment industry and philanthropy make him a unique multi-talented athlete from Thailand.
#8 Sorn Seavmey
- 🏆 Sport(s): Taekwondo
- 🎂 Born in: 1994
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 2014 Asian Games Gold Medalist
Sorn Seavmey, a trailblazing figure in Thai taekwondo, made history by becoming the first Thai athlete to win an Asian Games gold in the sport. Her stellar performances have garnered widespread acclaim and inspired the nation with her resilience, determination, and skill.
Seavmey’s hard work and humbleness have made her a beloved figure among Thai sports fans and a role model for aspiring athletes.
#9 Panipak Wongpattanakit
- 🏆 Sport(s): Taekwondo
- 🎂 Born in: 1997
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 2020 Olympic Gold Medalist
Panipak Wongpattanakit, one of the rising stars in the world of taekwondo, brought glory to Thailand by winning a gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Her exceptional speed, flexibility, and strategic awareness have made her a formidable competitor on the international stage.
Her remarkable achievements and dedication to the sport have earned her a place among Thailand’s most popular athletes.
#10 Chanathip Songkrasin
- 🏆 Sport(s): Soccer
- 🎂 Born in: 1993
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Thai League 1 Winner, 2016 ASEAN Football Championship
Chanathip Songkrasin, also known as “Messi Jay” due to his agility and dribbling skills, has been instrumental in raising the profile of Thai soccer. His professional career has seen him excel in both domestic and international leagues, earning him recognition as one of Thailand’s top soccer talents.
Fans appreciate his humble attitude and dedication to his craft, making him an inspiration to many aspiring soccer players.
#11 Sudaporn Seesondee
- 🏆 Sport(s): Boxing
- 🎂 Born in: 1991
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 2018 Asian Games Silver Medalist
Sudaporn Seesondee, a promising Thai boxer, has consistently demonstrated skill and tenacity in the ring. Her accomplishments at the Asian Games served as a milestone moment in her career and solidified her status as one of Thailand’s most popular athletes.
Off the ring, Sudaporn is known for her sportsmanship and dedication to the sport of boxing, making her an inspiring figure for both fans and fellow athletes.
#12 Nuttapong Ketin
- 🏆 Sport(s): Weightlifting
- 🎂 Born in: 1992
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Southeast Asian Games Gold Medalist
Nuttapong Ketin has made significant strides in Thai weightlifting over the years. His consistent successes at the Southeast Asian Games have placed him among the region’s top-performing athletes in the sport. His remarkable strength, stellar technique, and unwavering determination have earned him recognition among fans and fellow weightlifters alike.
Outside the competitive arena, Nuttapong is distinguished by his humble demeanor and commitment to the sport.
FAQ
Who is the greatest athlete in the history of Thailand?
Boonsak Ponsana is arguably the greatest athlete in Thai history, renowned for his accomplishments in badminton.
Who is the most popular female athlete from Thailand?
Ratchanok Intanon, a professional badminton player, is Thailand’s most popular female athlete.
Which sport has the most popular athletes from Thailand?
Muay Thai, Thailand’s national sport, boasts the country’s most popular athletes.
Which athlete from Thailand is the most popular internationally?
Professional golfer Ariya Jutanugarn is Thailand’s most internationally recognized athlete.
