Thai Takball Association Apologizes to Aichi Governor Over Food Clip
The Thai Takball association apologized to Aichi Governor Hideaki Omura after his harsh criticism of a viral food clip made by the team during the Asian Games. The association said the clip was intended as light‑hearted fun and not to gain views, while the coach stressed their goal was to win gold. The governor’s remarks upset many in Thailand and Japan, being seen as unfair and damaging to the event’s dignity.
The Takball association, led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Praiyaphas Chalanpong, clarified the controversy surrounding a staff‑made food video from the Asian Games and apologized to Aichi Governor Hideaki Omura. The governor had criticized Thai Takball players for allegedly shooting the clip to gain views, saying they should not have come to Japan in the first place. On October 8, Praiyaphas said he was sorry if the video had made the governor or viewers uncomfortable, and Coach "Oot" Weerat Phabchomphu reiterated that the clip was not intended to attract views. He explained that he had originally shared a light‑hearted clip about the modest food servings at the Games, which went viral on social media. After seeing it, the governor responded angrily, questioning whether the athletes were there for views and stating that it would have been better if such people had never come. His remarks drew criticism from both Thais and many Japanese, who called them harsh, unfair, and damaging to the prestige of the international competition. Praiyaphas added that, if the clip had caused any discomfort, the association, its staff, coaches, and athletes apologized for their unintentional action. Meanwhile, Coach Oot said the video was simply a relaxed, fun moment for the team, not a complaint, and emphasized that their real goal at the Asian Games was to win gold, not to chase views. He noted that the team was well taken care of by the Prime Minister and regretted not filming a clip showing they were eating well.