Thailand Packs a Punch: 8 Gold Medals and a 4-Peat Champion at the Muay Thai Youth World Championships
Muay Thai Youth World Championships: Thailand Finishes 2nd with 8 Gold Medals
The Muay Thai Youth World Championships have concluded, with Thailand finishing in second place, winning 8 gold, 6 silver, and 8 bronze medals. Niracha Tangjiw Kotsadao made history by winning the world championship for the fourth time in a row.
The event, organized by the International Federation of Muay Thai Associations (IFMA) in collaboration with the Thai Muay Thai Amateur Association, was held at Paragon Hall, Siam Paragon, from September 13-19. The competition featured young Muay Thai boxers from over 100 nations, with approximately 2,000 athletes and 1,500 officials participating.
The final day of competition saw Thai boxers advancing to the finals in all five divisions. Niracha Tangjiu, a three-time world youth champion, won the gold medal in the female category 45 kg, 16-17 years old, defeating Chaima Ettasiri from Morocco.
Niracha expressed her satisfaction with her performance, stating that she was pleased with her progress and acknowledged the improvement of her competitors. She hopes to compete in the SEA Games next year and potentially in the Olympic Games if Muay Thai is included.
Other notable winners from Thailand include Phaththaranan Phikunwilai, who won the gold medal in the male category 45 kg, 14-15 years old, and Thidarat Kanburi, who won the gold medal in the female category 48 kg, 16-17 years old.
Dr. Sakchai Tapsuwan, President of IFMA, praised the organization of the competition, stating that it was excellent and that the standard of competition was high. He also acknowledged the improvement of foreign athletes, particularly from Arab countries and Europe.
Dr. Sakchai emphasized the importance of Muay Thai being included in the Olympic Games, stating that it would not only bring fame but also help to promote soft power in line with government policy. He requested the government’s support in promoting Muay Thai for the Olympics.
Medal Count:
- Gold: 8
- Silver: 6
- Bronze: 8
Thailand finished in second place, behind Ukraine, which won 8 gold, 9 silver, and 3 bronze medals.