Thai Taekwondo Star Yoo Wins Asian Games Gold, Eyes Olympics
Thai taekwondo athlete Yoo Ballang won the men's 68kg gold at the 20th Asian Games in Japan, defeating an Iranian opponent 2-0. The victory gave Thailand its 18th gold medal overall and the only taekwondo gold at the games. Yoo said the win came after a year of preparation and set his sights on Olympic gold in 2028.
At the 20th Asian Games in Toyohashi, Japan on October 3, 2026, Thai taekwondo athlete Yoo Ballang won the gold medal in the men's 68kg category, defeating Iran's Mahdi Hajimouzai Nafuti 2-0 with scores 6-5, 3-2. It was Thailand's 18th gold medal overall and the only taekwondo gold at the event.
After the match, Yoo Ballang said he was delighted to bring a medal to taekwondo, adding that the sport's gold had come late but was sure. "I felt no pressure, felt nothing; we prepared all year for today, and nothing is harder than the preparation. The taekwondo association earned gold, and we also have bronze medals from 'Im' Patsakorn Poolkoed and 'Kanomjeab' Natkamol Wasna. Although our results differ, we all share the same dedication, training, and preparation; everyone is equally tired. I want Thai sports fans to support and cheer us."
Yoo Ballang continued, "Since the 2024 Paris Olympics I have competed in the men's 68kg division, training hard, building strength, and changing my methods, which led to becoming world champion last year. However, early this year opponents figured us out, resulting in steady losses. This match was the final major event of the year; I focused on the Asian Games, wanted to perform well, and succeeded. Moving forward, I will continue in the 68kg category, aiming to win gold at the 2028 Olympics."
