The Sports Authority of Thailand has officially recognized the establishment of the "Pickleball Sports Association," with Mrs. Taya serving as the first president, pushing forward the sport's development to the national level.
On 23 Dec 2025 GMT+7, the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) officially registered the "Pickleball Sports Association" on 15 December. This followed efforts by the "Thailand Pickleball Championship" group, chaired by Mrs. Taya Tipsuwan, who has continuously promoted pickleball—from proposing its recognition as an official sport to SAT's formal approval in November—and culminating in the full establishment of the association, with Mrs. Taya as its inaugural president.
Mrs. Taya Tipsuwan said, “Being officially recognized as the Pickleball Sports Association is great news for all Thai pickleball athletes. I thank the SAT executives and board for recognizing the sport’s potential, which is rapidly gaining popularity. It is accessible to all ages and genders and shows promising international growth.”
“Over time, the Thailand Pickleball Championship group has been the main driver advocating for official recognition. Now, the association’s formation will be a key mechanism to develop the sport systematically and sustainably. The association’s main goals are to establish transparent, well-managed standards, provide clear direction, and offer Thai athletes opportunities to develop their skills to reach national team levels and represent Thailand in future international competitions.”
“The association’s board includes prominent figures from diverse sectors, such as Police General Jaruwat Vaisaya, Air Chief Marshal Apisit Chayanuwat, Sareerath Propakkham, Wichian Withoontheir, Kathleya McIntosh, Thanarak Thanmanee, Warinda Singkirat, Kanika Weerawan, Thanabodee Rasmittat, Thitipan Subkla, and Pang Kongsiri, all volunteering their dedication to jointly advance and develop Thai pickleball for stable long-term growth.”
“Moving forward, the association plans to promote pickleball among youth across all regions to ensure equal access, starting with a pilot training project in Trang Province alongside ongoing social activities. They also plan to organize various levels of tournaments to create enjoyment and develop competitive skills for both domestic and international contests, which will lead to excellence and serve as a platform to scout rising stars for the national team.”
Previously, the Thailand Pickleball Championship group demonstrated its capability in organizing national and international events, notably the MLAB Thailand Pickleball Championship 2025 at Rugby School in Chonburi Province. It was praised as the largest pickleball tournament in Thailand, featuring over 16 courts running simultaneously and attracting athletes from more than 15 countries worldwide.