After the all-Thai match ended in a way no one wished for, “May” Ratchanok and “May” Supanida both took to social media, reflecting friendship and concern beyond the competition results.
On 22 Jan 2026 GMT+7, during the Indonesia Masters badminton tournament in Jakarta, a heartbreaking incident occurred in the second round of the women's singles event when two Thai female shuttlers faced each other: world No. 6 “May” Ratchanok Intanon and the rising junior “May” Supanida Ketthong.
The match began intensely, with Supanida showing strong form, controlling the pace better and taking the first game 21-18.
However, a crucial turning point came in the second game. While Ratchanok led 8-3, an unexpected accident occurred when Ratchanok’s backhand shot struck Supanida’s eye forcefully, causing Supanida to be unable to continue. She had to retire and withdraw from the match immediately.
As a result, “May” Ratchanok Intanon advanced to the quarterfinals, where she is scheduled to face a tough opponent, former world champion Nozomi Okuhara of Japan.
After the match, Ratchanok posted on her Instagram story expressing regret over the incident and sincerely apologized to her junior teammate.
“Sorry, May. You played really well today. I’m truly sorry about what happened.”
“Bring the championship home to Thailand. Keep fighting and get well soon.”
Meanwhile, Supanida promptly reassured fans about her condition and sent encouragement to her senior to continue in the tournament.
“I’m fine, everyone. It was an accident no one wanted to happen.”
“Sending support to P’May for tomorrow. Keep fighting, P’May. Love you, P’May.”