7-8-2024 (BANGKOK) Thai badminton sensation Kunlavut “View” Vitidsarn is poised for a triumphant return to his homeland, having secured Thailand’s first-ever Olympic silver medal in badminton at the Paris 2024 Games. The 23-year-old’s historic achievement has not only etched his name in the annals of Thai sports history but has also earned him a substantial financial windfall.
Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul, president of the Badminton Association of Thailand, announced on Monday that Kunlavut is set to receive more than 11 million baht (approximately $308,000) in rewards from various sports agencies and benefactors. This generous sum serves as a testament to the nation’s appreciation for his remarkable accomplishment.
The world No. 8 secured his place in the final after a commanding victory over Malaysia’s Lee Jii Zia in the semi-finals, with scores of 21-14 and 21-15. Although Kunlavut fell short in the gold medal match against Denmark’s Viktor Axelsen, his silver medal performance has been hailed as a watershed moment for Thai badminton.
Breaking down the financial rewards, Kunlavut stands to gain up to 7.2 million baht from the National Sports Development Fund (NSDF), should he opt for instalment payments. Additionally, the National Olympic Committee of Thailand will provide him with a monthly salary of 10,000 baht for the next two decades, amounting to 2.4 million baht in total.
In a personal gesture of appreciation, Khunying Patama, who also serves as a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and vice president of the Badminton World Federation, has pledged a further 1.5 million baht to the young star.
Kunlavut’s silver medal is the crowning achievement of what has already been a stellar Olympic campaign for Thailand’s badminton team. For the first time in two decades, Thai athletes secured Olympic berths in all five badminton categories. Notable performances included Supanida Katethong reaching the round of 16 and former world champion Ratchanok Intanon advancing to the quarter-finals in the women’s singles event.
“View has not only made history for Thai badminton but has also brought immense joy to our nation through his success,” Khunying Patama remarked. “His achievements will undoubtedly inspire young Thais to embrace sports, particularly badminton.”
The Badminton Association of Thailand is now setting its sights on the future, with Kunlavut’s triumph serving as a catalyst for talent development programmes aimed at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
