Thai Olympic Games medallists get hero’s welcome upon their return

Olympic taekwondo gold medallist Panipak Wongpattanakit, boxing bronze medallist Janjaem Suwannapheng, other Thai Olympic athletes and their coaches returned to a warm welcome at Suvarnabhumi international airport this morning.

They were received by Tourism and Sports Minister Sermsak Pongpanich, their relatives and supporters.

Sermsak said that the Thai athletes are the pride of Thailand and the Thai people for bringing home six medals, including one gold, adding that the government has planned a celebration at Government House for all the Thai Olympic and Paralympic athletes, once the Paralympic Games end on September 8th.

Those who did not win a medal will each receive a gift of 100,000 baht from the government, Sermsak said.

Two-time Olympic taekwondo gold medallist Panipak said this morning that she is happy to be home and had not expected the athletes to be welcomed by so many people.

She said that she could barely sleep after winning the gold, adding that she is proud to bring fame to Thailand.

Panipak said that the 2024 Olympic Games were her last as a competitive athlete. “I have completed the writing of this book, called “taekwondo”. This is a complete and beautiful end and I am going to write the next book, which is to open a taekwondo school,” she added.

She also said that she hopes her success will be an inspiration for other athletes and she is ready to offer moral support to others who want to chase their dream in taekwondo competitions.