"Taya" led the Pickleball Association delegation to thank the Sports Authority of Thailand governor and showcase the Thai team's top 8 finish at a world-level competition in China.,
Mrs. Taya Tipsuwan, President of the Pickleball Sports Association, led the association's executive committee to pay respects to Dr. Kongsak Yodmanee, Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), at the Chalerm Phrakiat 7th Cycle Birthday Anniversary Building at SAT Huamark, on the occasion of the 2026 New Year festival. They also expressed gratitude to SAT for officially recognizing the Pickleball Sports Association late last year, under the leadership of the Thailand Pickleball Championship group, marking an important step in advancing pickleball in Thailand to international standards.
During this visit, the association president reported key activities, highlighting the recent selection and sending of the Thai national pickleball team to compete internationally at the "Li Ning Cup China ASEAN Pickleball Open" in China earlier in January. The Thai athletes made history by reaching the top 8 out of 32 teams. Moreover, Thailand was the only team besides China to advance to the quarterfinals, earning pride and international attention in the global pickleball community.
Mrs. Taya added that the association's main goal is to create opportunities and develop athletes' potential. Sending athletes to compete internationally provides invaluable experience, allowing Thai players to learn professional techniques and playing styles. Additionally, the association fully supports funding for athlete selection to ensure skilled and dedicated players from all organizations can proudly represent Thailand without financial constraints.
"The association will be the key driver in advancing pickleball in Thailand by expanding the player base, improving training systems, and preparing plans to continuously send athletes to compete on the world stage. This will elevate Thailand's pickleball standards, gain recognition, and enhance the country’s reputation internationally," said the president of the Pickleball Sports Association.