August 5, 2024
BANGKOK – Son of the soil Kunlavut Vitidsarn pinned a new chapter in Thai badminton history after defeating Malaysia’s Lee Jii Zia 21-14, 21-15 in the men’s singles semi-final, guaranteeing at least an Olympic silver medal.
The world No. 8, the only Thai survivor out of nine badminton delegates, proved immaculate in all aspects of his game—from shot selection to agility and power—barely leaving any chance for the world No. 7 to catch up.
This tremendous win fulfilled Thailand’s long-awaited dream of an Olympic medal in badminton.
“I tried to play point by point, not thinking ahead about the results, as that could have made me lose focus,” said the 23-year-old current world champion. “Overall, it was a good match from my side, even though there were still some lapses which were a result of me thinking about the outcome. I was trying to be a bit more aggressive, as the air ventilation wouldn’t suit a passive game.”
The badminton icon now stands a shot at winning a gold medal, provided he prevails over his next and most challenging opponent, defending champion Viktor Axelsen of Denmark, in the final showdown set for 7:30 PM Bangkok time on August 5. Kunlavut trails the former world No 1 with a 1-7 head-to-head record.
“As I have said many times earlier, it will be very difficult to win a medal in my first Olympics. But as I’m in the final now, if possible, I’d love to win the gold for our country. No matter who I have to play in the final, they are all top players and the level is not so different. I will do my best. Anything can happen in the Olympics.”
