Volleyball fans were disheartened as "Ornuma," one of the Seven Masters, retired from professional women's volleyball and immediately revealed the reason.
On 14 March 2026, Ornuma Sithirak, a player for the Thai women's national volleyball team, officially announced her retirement from professional volleyball after the final match of the TVA Channel 2026 Thailand Volleyball League held at Terminal 21 Korat shopping center.
The match result showed Ornuma Sithirak's club, GLO Miracle Nakhon Nonthaburi, defeating Khon Kaen University Khon Kaen Stars 3-1 sets, 25-19, 25-18, 23-25, 25-10, before Ornuma announced her retirement immediately after the game.
Ornuma Sithirak, aged 39, shared her retirement news on her personal social media, saying, "The final whistle of the match marks the end of my 22-year professional athletic career across 16 clubs."
"Volleyball has given me everything in life. If it weren't for volleyball, I wouldn't have come this far—traveling the world (fulfilling my dream), honing my skills, and living abroad. Looking back on my adventurous journey, I never thought being 175 cm tall among players over 190 cm would be so challenging."
"But trying to keep up with others felt like using my future body prematurely. My body kept sending warning signals continuously—injuries that will never fully heal."
"In reality, my body's limits meant I should have rested 4 to 5 years ago, but my passion kept my spirit alive on the volleyball court for this long."
"I thank all my coaches who taught and guided me: Kru Ong-Arj Thaikoet, Coach Somchai Kitkam, Coach Somchai Wichianchai, Kru Banterng Khaopong, Coach Sorat Wannawong, Coach Mai Pornchai Baisantiea, Coach Kiattipong Ratchakriangkrai, Coach Danai Sriwatcharamethakul, Coach Natthaphon Srisamutnak, and all other coaches not mentioned, and of course, the Seven Masters."
"Thanks to all the doctors who treated me and understood an athlete's life, even when they kindly advised me to stop."
"Today is truly the right time. I bid farewell to the rubber court, knee supports, and all athletic gear. I don't know what the future as a coach holds, but I will miss the cheers from everyone. Please don't forget me."