National —
On August 1st, 2024, Thai national media provided an update on the badminton and boxing matches at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
In badminton, Supanida Katethong, ranked 16th globally, competed in the women’s singles round of 16 against Japan’s Akane Yamaguchi, ranked 6th. Supanida struggled in the first game, trailing 17-5 before losing 21-6. She improved in the second game, tying at 11-11, but Yamaguchi’s speed and precision prevailed, leading to a 21-13 victory.
An emotional Supanida admitted to numerous mistakes and overexertion during her match. Despite the loss, she remains hopeful for her Olympic future, aiming to return in four years and continue chasing her dreams.
In the men’s 63.5 kg boxing quarterfinals, Thailand’s Banjong Sinsiri faced Cuba’s Alvarez Borges Erislandy. The winner would advance to the semifinals, securing at least a bronze medal.
The first round was an intense fight, with both fighters exchanging fierce punches. Banjong showcased clever tactics, but the Cuban’s speed and combination punches earned him a 4-1 lead from the judges. In the second round, Banjong increased his activity, but Alvarez’s skill and speed dominated, leading to a 5-0 judges’ decision.
In the final round, Alvarez maintained his pace, landing powerful blows that Banjong couldn’t match. The fight concluded with the Cuban winning by unanimous decision, 5-0, ending Banjong’s run and dashing Thailand’s hopes for a boxing medal in three consecutive Olympics since Kaeo Pongprayoon’s silver in London 2012.
Post-fight, Banjong expressed no regrets, stating he gave his all and apologized to Thai fans for not bringing home a medal. He hinted at retiring after one more appearance at the SEA Games, feeling content with his Olympic experience.
This article originally appeared on our sister website The Pattaya News.
