"Popor-Omo," the world No. 33 mixed doubles badminton pair, hope to advance to the finals of the Thailand Masters to collect points and improve their world ranking.
On the morning of Monday, 26 Jan 2026, the Thai national badminton team arrived to train at the actual competition venue, Nimibutr Arena, National Stadium. The practice aimed to condition their bodies and familiarize themselves with wind currents and lighting before competing in the major "Princess Sirivannavari Thailand Masters 2026," contending for the royal trophy granted by Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya. The tournament offers total prize money of $250,000 USD, approximately 8.5 million baht, from 27 Jan to 1 Feb 2026 at Nimibutr Arena, National Stadium. The atmosphere was lively, with all athletes in full physical condition, led by "Omo" Pakpol Thiraratsakul and "Popor" Supasiri Tetratchai, alongside Thai men's singles player "Gun" Kantaphon Wangcharoen.
After training, "Popor" Supasiri Tetratchai and "Omo" Pakpol Thiraratsakul, Thailand's new mixed doubles hopefuls, revealed that the practice went according to plan. Their goal this year is to rapidly improve their world ranking after recently reaching the second round at the 2026 India Open.
"Popor-Supasiri" expressed their expectations for this tournament: "For the Thailand Masters, we hope to contend for the championship, but we must focus on one round at a time to reduce pressure. The competition draw is quite tough, so we need to prepare carefully. We also invite sports fans to come support us at the venue."
Meanwhile, "Omo-Pakpol" admitted that initially pairing with the world champion senior "Popor" was somewhat nerve-wracking, but now they have adapted and are increasingly learning to play well together.
Schedule for the Princess Sirivannavari Thailand Masters 2026:
Tuesday, 27 Jan 2026: Qualifying rounds (09:00) / First round doubles (15:00)
Wednesday, 28 Jan 2026: First round (09:00)
Thursday, 29 Jan 2026: Second round (12:00)
Friday, 30 Jan 2026: Quarterfinals (13:00)
Saturday, 31 Jan 2026: Semifinals (12:00)
Sunday, 1 Feb 2026: Finals (12:00)
Fans interested in attending can purchase tickets at all Thai Ticket Major branches or at the venue, with prices ranging from 100 to 1,200 baht. Those unable to attend can watch live broadcasts on YouTube: BWF TV and True Visions starting from the quarterfinals onward.