Bangkok: "Big A," the president of the Olympic Committee, has been appointed as an advisor to the Pickleball Association of Thailand, with the aim of providing policy guidance to enhance the potential of Thai pickleball athletes for international competition.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Thaya Teepsuwan, President of the Pickleball Sport Association, led the association's committee in welcoming Asst. Prof. Pimol Srivikrom, who has accepted the role of President of the Association's Advisory Board. Her presence was honored at the first meeting of the Pickleball Sport Association's committee. During this meeting, the association reported significant progress, including the establishment of the Pickleball Sport Association (TPSA), officially recognized by the Sports Authority of Thailand late last year, after a successful push for pickleball's registration as a sport.
Among the association's achievements was the successful organization of the MLAB Thailand Pickleball Championship 2025 at Rugby School International in Chonburi province. This tournament, held to international standards with 16 playing fields and participation from over 15 countries, showcased Thailand's capability to host international competitions. The association plans to organize this major tournament again this year.
The Pickleball Association also facilitated the participation of Thai athletes in the 'LI-NING CUP' China-ASEAN Pickleball Open in China, where they achieved a Top 8 finish, highlighting the potential of Thai athletes on the international stage.
Ms. Thaya shared the association's plans for the year, including organizing five smaller tournaments and a major event at the year's end. The association aims to promote pickleball among youth and students across Bangkok and other provinces to build a base of athletes for the future Thai national team. This initiative is being piloted at the Trang Sports School.
Associate Professor Pimol, in her advisory role, stressed the importance of strengthening the organization to elevate it to a national-level sports association. She emphasized the goal of officially promoting the Thai national pickleball team to compete globally, representing Thailand.