The first two members of the Thai women's volleyball team have come forward to support Shin Yoshida amid drama over helping a rival win the Asian Championship.
On 31 August 2026, the aftermath of the controversy around Shin Yoshida, the Japanese staff coach of Thailand's women's volleyball team, continued. He faced questions and attacks on social media from Japanese volleyball fans for aiding a rival nation to defeat his home country.
Shin Yoshida was a key figure behind Thailand's women's volleyball team winning the 2026 Asian Women's Volleyball Championship in China, defeating Japan in the semifinals and China in the finals, securing their first-ever qualification for the 2028 Olympics in Thai volleyball history.
However, some Japanese fans criticized Coach Shin, mistakenly believing he left the Japanese national team to work for Thailand. He promptly clarified the facts, affirming his continued respect for Japanese volleyball but said when facing his home country, he must perform fully for Thailand as a professional.
After Coach Shin posted his explanation on Instagram, Pimpichaya Kokram and Pornpun Guedpard, two key players of the Thai women's volleyball team, were among the first teammates to comment and show their support immediately.
Pimpichaya Kokram encouraged Shin Yoshida, saying, "I know how much you have been through, and you have chosen the best path for your life. You are about to go to the Olympics."
Meanwhile, Pornpun Guedpard, captain of the Thai women's team, commented to "Coach Shin," "You are amazing, Shin. Thank you for your hard work and dedication to the Thai national team. I am truly grateful and admire you greatly."
The Thai women's volleyball team is scheduled to return to Thailand today (31 August 2026) at Suvarnabhumi Airport at 21:15 on Thai Airways flight TG615.
