"Joshua" responds for the first time to the issue of the missing Thai flag despite making history by winning gold at the 2026 Asian Games.
On 29 September 2026, Joshua Robert Atkinson, a 23-year-old Thai-Australian runner, spoke openly for the first time following the controversy where the Athletics Association of Thailand did not have the Thai flag ready for him at the finish line.
Joshua Robert Atkinson won the gold medal in the men's 400 meters at the 2026 Asian Games with a time of 44.90 seconds, making history as the first Thai national athlete to claim gold in this event.
However, at the finish line, the Athletics Association did not bring the Thai flag for him to celebrate his victory, despite his historic gold medal for Thailand. This led Joshua Robert Atkinson to express his disappointment on social media.
Subsequently, Police General Chakthip Chaijinda, president of the Athletics Association of Thailand, spoke with and encouraged Joshua Robert Atkinson and his mother to listen to their opinions and issues, aiming to improve care and plan training, develop potential, and support appropriate, continuous participation in international competitions.
Recently, Joshua opened up about this issue after leading the men's 4x400 meter relay team to the finals, with a chance to win another medal at the 2026 Asian Games (event held today at 19:17 Thai time), saying, "I don't think there is much to say. There is no hatred or targeting anyone in particular."
"At first, it was purely emotional because I was just frustrated and upset. I felt I might be the first Thai athlete to win this medal, not just the championship but in a major event like this, without a national flag. So, it was quite disappointing."
"But in the end, we are all human and can make mistakes. The association... I think the new team has been working less than a year. Managing everyone is truly difficult, so criticizing or blaming just for one mistake is..."
"Let me emphasize again, there is no hatred or bad feelings. I've moved past it now. What will happen, will happen. They have acknowledged, understood, and apologized, which is the best they could do."
"I can move on, and so can they, as long as there is no resentment or ill feelings. For me, there is nothing left unresolved. I am okay and at peace."
"(Did you talk with the association president?) We talked a little, mostly about my mother. I'm a bit tired right now, so I don't remember all the details clearly, but there was nothing negative or bad to say. As I said, I just tried to move on, and I really have."
"(Do you know Thai fans are always on your side?) Yes, I know. I haven't read all the messages yet—they keep coming nonstop. I'm trying to reply to everyone. It's truly overwhelming support and encouragement."
"I'm very grateful. Many shared their stories with me about how they were impressed, such as how I turned negative feelings into strong energy and used it positively, which I did. It seems to inspire many people to keep going and not give up."
"I'm not just thankful for the support, but I'm even more touched to see people inspired and encouraged to improve their own lives."
"Well, if you are Thai, then I am Thai. We are all like one family. Everyone wants me to do well, and I want everyone to succeed and have a good life too. We take care of each other—that's how it is."