Bangkok: "Nicknames for Sports Personalities 2025," a publication by the Sports Journalists and Photographers Association of Thailand, has become an annual tradition, offering playful monikers for sports figures, aimed at good-natured teasing rather than disrespect. This year, the association has released a list of 12 nicknames.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Kongsak Yodmani, Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand, received the nickname "The one who handles all the drama." His leadership during the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand saw the nation secure 233 gold medals, despite the challenges of budget constraints and government transitions.
The Football Association of Thailand, under "Madam Pang" Nualphan Lamsam, was dubbed "The Bag-Carrying Society" after ending 2025 with a significant debt related to broadcasting rights. Despite aiming for four gold medals at the SEA Games, the association only achieved two silver and two bronze medals.
Young skateboarder "Nong Mini" Chankao Udomphen, just 10 years old, was nicknamed "Exceedingly Talented" after making history as the youngest Thai athlete to win a SEA Games gold medal, breaking a past record set by gymnast Thirach Phopanich.
Badminton player "May" Ratchanok Intanon, celebrated her first SEA Games gold at 30, earning the nickname "Aunt May, the energetic one!" This victory was a fitting finale to her illustrious career.
Mon Thong Wittaya School became known as "The Dream Car, Kicking the Jackpot Across Thailand" after their unexpected journey to the final of the 7HD Champion Cup, capturing the nation's attention despite finishing as runners-up.
Sprinter "Bew" Puripol Boonsorn, at 19, earned the moniker "Fast 9" for his remarkable 9.94-second 100-meter run, making him the first ASEAN runner to break the 10-second barrier and securing multiple gold medals at the SEA Games.
Golfer "Pro Gino" Atthaya Thitikul was labeled "The Unbeatable Swing" for her outstanding year, which included winning the CME Group Tour Championship and reclaiming the world number one ranking.
The Amateur Muay Thai Association, while exceeding medal expectations, faced controversy over alleged match-fixing, resulting in the nickname "Lock for a Friend."
Muay Thai fighter Tawanchai P.K. Saenchai, known as "The Left-Handed Star Who Shocked the World," experienced a challenging year with two significant defeats.
Khunying Patthama Leesawatrakul, an IOC member and badminton federation president, was named "Ambassador of Global Sports" for her continued contributions to the sports world.
The Esports Association faced scrutiny in 2025, earning the nickname "Died during a live stream" after misconduct by athlete "Tokyo Gurl" led to the women's team's withdrawal and her lifetime ban.
Finally, the Sepak Takraw Association was called "Wipeout" following a disappointing SEA Games performance, marking the first time in decades the men's team did not secure a gold medal, amidst rumors of internal discord.