World No. 6 Thai badminton sensation Pornpawee Chochuwong has announced her withdrawal from the upcoming 33rd SEA Games, scheduled to be hosted by Thailand in 2025. This decision marks a significant setback for the host nation’s medal aspirations, as Chochuwong has explicitly stated that a profound lack of support and perceived neglect from the Thai Badminton Association (BAT) is the primary reason for her unexpected departure.
Chochuwong, a celebrated four-time SEA Games gold medalist, conveyed deep dissatisfaction and disappointment regarding what she perceives as inadequate backing from the BAT. The 27-year-old athlete clarified that her decision to withdraw, despite Thailand’s role as host, serves as both a personal protest and a protective measure to avoid similar challenges in the future. She revealed that she had dedicated herself entirely to rigorous training in preparation for the 33rd SEA Games. This commitment led her to make the significant sacrifice of foregoing participation in major international tournaments, including the Australian Open and another championship event in China, specifically to focus on the regional multi-sport competition. Adding to her frustration, Chochuwong claims she has frequently used her own personal funds for essential expenses, such as food and travel, directly attributing these financial burdens to the BAT’s perceived lack of support. She is now publicly awaiting an official response and a detailed explanation from the national federation concerning these critical issues.
This controversy arises after the Thai Badminton Association faced earlier scrutiny. The Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) previously imposed penalties on the BAT, which included a deduction of approximately $185 from each athlete’s allowance. This sanction was a direct consequence of the BAT’s failure to ensure that its athletes underwent mandatory health checks in preparation for the 33rd SEA Games. Notably, Chochuwong herself, along with other prominent Thai badminton players such as men’s world number one Kunlavut Vitisarn and former world champion Ratchanok Intanon, were among those affected by these financial deductions.
Despite her involvement in the allowance cut, the 27-year-old Chochuwong firmly asserts that her decision to withdraw from the 33rd SEA Games is entirely separate from the financial penalty. Her sentiments resonate with those of other badminton athletes, who have reportedly voiced similar concerns about receiving insufficient attention and support from the BAT, particularly regarding training allowances and the provision of necessary equipment.
In the wake of this high-profile incident, BAT Secretary-General Udomsak Chuenkrut has acknowledged the situation. He announced that the federation is committed to finding a resolution. Plans are currently underway for meetings with the BAT President, representatives from the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), and the National Olympic Committee of Thailand (NOCT) to address the athlete’s concerns and, ideally, persuade Chochuwong to reconsider her decision and compete in the Games.
Beyond her four SEA Games gold medals, Pornpawee Chochuwong boasts an impressive international career, establishing her as one of Thailand’s premier badminton talents. Her accolades include winning silver medals at the World Junior Badminton Championships in both 2015 and 2016. Furthermore, she played a pivotal role in Thailand’s success at team World Badminton Championships, contributing to gold medal victories in 2017, 2019, 2020, and 2021, underscoring her immense value to the national team.
