Organised via a collabration between the Badminton Association of Thailand under the Royal Patronage, the Sport Association of Phuket, and the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organization (PPAO), the six-day event drew over 400 participants from more than 25 countries competing for a prize pot of US$20,000 (B650,000).
Phuket Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn presided over the closing ceremony at the 4,000-seat indoor gymnasium at Saphan Hin on Sunday, where he was joined by: Ploytalay Laksmisangchan, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office; Air Chief Marshal Monthol Sachanukorn, President of the Badminton Association of Thailand under the Royal Patronage; Thammawat Wongcharoenyos, President of the Sport Association of Phuket and Sports Authority of Thailand Committee Member; as well as representatives from Toyota Thailand, selected officials from public and private sector entities, members of the media and fans.
The atmosphere throughout the competition was vibrant and lively, attracting large crowds of local, regional and international badminton fans. Leading players involved i the competition included: South Korea’s Jeong Na Eun, who was a silver medalist in mixed doubles at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games; Le Duc Phat from Vietnam; Christian Adinata from Indonesia; as well as many promising Thai athletes and members of the Thai national team.
Governor Nirat congratulated all competing athletes, stating that this was important event that provided an opportunity for Thai and international athletes to showcase their potential, gain experience and achieve results on the international stage.
Furthermore, he praised the extensive network of partners, sponsors and associated organisations that collaborated to make the competition a success, something that reflects Phuket’s potential to host international sporting events to the highest standards.
The competition also played a significant role in stimulating the local economy, explained Governor Nirat, with the influx of local, national and international athletes, coaches, officials and supporters resulting in significant economic activity and tangible vibrancy across the island.