Joshua's perspective after winning the gold medal in the 400m at the 2026 Asian Games but no Thai flag was prepared for him.
On 27 Sep 2026 GMT+7, Joshua Robert Atkinson, a 23-year-old Thai-Australian runner and four-time gold medalist at the 2021 SEA Games, finished first in the final with a time of 44.90 seconds, marking his personal best.
A topic raised on social media questioned why Joshua did not wave the Thai flag after crossing the finish line first.
Many fans offered support, including Instagram user pirchperone who commented, “I am an ordinary Thai deeply moved after hearing your interview with the reporter, where you mentioned some Thais looked down on you and did not support you” (referring to the issue of no flag being prepared).
“As a fellow Thai, I want you to know there are still many in Thailand who love, respect, and support you always. Don’t let those negative opinions discourage you.”
“Keep moving forward and be proud of what you’ve achieved, as many people continue to cheer for you and wish you the best in every step ahead.”
Joshua replied to the comment, saying, “Hey, thank you so much for the warm and encouraging words. They truly mean a lot to me.”
“I want to explain more because the interview shared did not show the full content. I know I have hundreds, maybe thousands of fans, and I am very grateful for that.”
“But I believe most people still don’t fully believe in my ability and potential.”
“For example, at the end of the race, there was no Thai flag prepared for me, which was very disappointing, and to be honest, I think it shouldn’t have happened.”
“This was my first time winning a medal for Thailand, yet there was no Thai flag at the finish line, as if no one thought I would need it.”