Thai fans have hope! Yameen, Thailand's number one fast ball player, makes his latest move after 'Big Phimon' plans to propose a new government increase in athlete allowances.
On 24 Dec 2025 GMT+7, after Kritsada Nilsawai, known as “Yameen,” Thailand’s top male national volleyball fast ball player, officially announced his retirement from the national team following leading Thailand to a 3-2 victory over Indonesia to win the SEA Games gold medal—the first in eight years since 2017 in Malaysia—securing their ninth championship title. Fans expressed regret as they still wanted to see him defend the net for the national team.
“Yameen” shared his decision: “I’m now retiring from the national team and will only play in the league. If necessary to return, I’ll consider it. Honestly, I want the athlete allowances increased because it’s been 900 baht per day for many years, and 300 baht is deducted for accommodation, leaving only 600 baht per day in reality. This has been the case for decades.”
Recently, Assistant Professor Phimon Srivikorn, president of the National Olympic Committee of Thailand, confirmed plans to push seriously for increased training allowances and cash rewards for SEA Games athletes, preparing to submit a proposal for approval by the new Cabinet.
Assistant Professor Phimon stated that the national athletes’ allowance of 900 baht per day has not been increased for over 15 years and is further reduced by accommodation and food costs, while living expenses and food prices have clearly risen. There is a plan to raise it to at least 1,200 baht per day to better suit the current economic situation.
Upon hearing this news, “Yameen” quickly responded with a hopeful message: “I am hopeful the national team allowance increase will soon become a reality. If it does, I might return for the next SEA Games (even if it means) playing until my knee is damaged, making a real impact.”
He added, “Thank you for understanding athletes like us. Younger athletes will be encouraged to continue playing sports to serve the nation.”