Better known to fans as James Wattana or “Tong Sitchoi,” the 50-year-old has joined the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party as a list MP candidate, appearing at No.48 on the party’s roster, reports the Bangkok Post.
It is the first time Wattana has sought public office, a decision that has generated considerable interest both within the sporting community and beyond.
Wattana’s move into politics follows closely on the heels of another snooker veteran, Atthasit Mahitthi.
His candidacy comes ahead of Thailand’s general election, scheduled for Feb 8 next year, with the Election Commission having opened registration for party-list MPs at the end of December. Ruam Thai Sang Chart has drawn No.6 in the party-list lottery.
Wattana’s name is indelibly linked with the golden era of Thai snooker.
Turning professional in 1989, he became the first Asian player to break into the sport’s elite, reaching a career-high ranking of world No.3 in the 1994-95 season.
His record includes three ranking titles - the Strachan Open in 1992 and the Thailand Open in 1994 and 1995 - as well as a victory at the World Matchplay in 1992.
Twice a semi-finalist at the World Championship at the Crucible, Wattana was renowned for his heavy scoring, compiling three official maximum 147 breaks and more than 160 century breaks across his career.
His success helped popularise snooker in Thailand during the 1990s, inspiring a generation of players and earning him the nickname “The Thai-phoon.”
He also represented his country at multiple Asian Games, winning medals in team events in 1998 and 2010. For Thai fans, Wattana’s achievements were more than statistics: they symbolised the nation’s arrival on the world snooker stage. His victories at home tournaments, particularly the Thailand Open, drew huge crowds and cemented his status as a national sporting hero.
Meanwhile, Atthasit, widely known as "Big Saraburi," has declared his candidacy for Saraburi’s Constituency 3 under the People’s Party banner.
A former amateur world champion in 2007 and a familiar voice to fans as a long-time snooker commentator, Atthasit is preparing for his first full campaign.
"I tested the waters before, running for the Senate in 2024," he said. "This time, I have chosen a party that aligns with my values - fairness, integrity and a forward-thinking approach. I believe I can represent the new generation."
His constituency includes his hometown of Wihan Daeng, along with Nong Khae, Nong Saeng and parts of Mueang District.
Atthasit has confirmed he has temporarily stepped away from commentary duties to avoid any legal conflicts during the campaign period, withdrawing from two recent events - the 2025 Shoot Out and the Scottish Open.
This marks a striking moment for Thai sport, with two of its most famous snooker figures now seeking to make their mark in national politics.