Thai Volleyball Coach Apologizes After Missing Gold Medal

Coach Kiatipong Ratchatakeangkai, head coach of the Thailand women's national volleyball team, spoke after Thailand lost to China 2-3 in the semifinal of the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan on September 21. He congratulated China on displaying excellent performance, describing the 3-2 set victory as a high-quality match. He highlighted China's strengths, including effective serving and efficient blocking, and noted that their key players scored consistently, giving the team confidence while making it difficult for Thailand to play and limiting their ability to create pressure and execute counterattacks.

Coach Kiatipong also expressed gratitude to the athletes and Thai coaching staff for their thorough preparation. He said ending their 16-match winning streak was not disappointing, as sports allow for both losses and victories. This tournament gave new players a chance to experience world-class competition as demonstrated by China, and Thailand fought with full effort. He stated the team had good morale and acknowledged the need for future improvements.

"I apologize to fans for not winning the gold medal as hoped, but losing in five sets represents success in our planning and preparation," the coach said. "Thank you to everyone, including all supporters and volleyball fans, for giving us strength to compete in this tournament. Our goal of winning a medal continues with the bronze medal competition. Everyone still has good spirit and will try our best to bring home a medal."