BANGKOK, Thailand – Former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin joined sports legends on stage at a forum to discuss the evolution of Thai sports as a form of soft power.
Srettha, the nation’s 30th prime minister, participated in a seminar titled “Rethinking Thai Sports in a Disruptive Era” yesterday, July 10th. He was joined by two-time Olympic Taekwondo gold medalist Panipak Wongpattanakit, known as “Tennis,” and Muay Thai legend Buakaw Banchamek. The event was part of the SPLASH soft power forum 2025 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center.
Srettha noted that Thai sports have developed significantly over the past 20 years. He observed that while only football and boxing were previously seen as viable careers, a wider variety of sports now offer professional opportunities, citing Panipak as an example of an athlete earning income from endorsements.
The former prime minister highlighted Muay Thai as a great source of national pride, being the only sport with “Thai” in its name. He pointed out that today’s athletes have greater access to sports science, nutrition, and modern training with support from the government and soft power agencies, unlike the situation 20 years ago.
Buakaw and Panipak shared their life stories, reflecting a fighter’s spirit, determination, and discipline. They stressed that their success came from unseen hard work, not just talent, which deeply impressed the audience.
The SPLASH soft power forum 2025 concludes its run today, July 11th, at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center.
