Sport
Thai Table Tennis Prodigy Stuns World No. 8 at Asian Games
16-year-old Thitaphat 'Norton' Preechayan achieved a major upset against China's Lin Shidong during the 20th Asian Games in Japan.
During the quarter-finals of the men's team event at the 20th Asian Games in Japan on September 22, 2026, 16-year-old Thai table tennis player Thitaphat 'Norton' Preechayan delivered a remarkable performance. Despite being ranked nearly 200 places below his opponent, Preechayan defeated China's Lin Shidong—a world top-10 player and 2026 world team champion—with a score of 3-2 (4-11, 11-8, 6-11, 11-7, 11-7).
Although Thailand ultimately lost the team match 1-3 to China, Preechayan’s victory stood out as the sole point secured by the Thai squad. According to Khaosod Online, Nattawut Rueangwes, President of the Table Tennis Association of Thailand, praised the young athlete's aggressive playing style and composure against a world-class opponent. Rueangwes noted that while the result was a surprise, it highlights Preechayan's significant potential. He expressed confidence that the teenager could become a core member of the senior national team within the next two to three years, well ahead of his 20th birthday.
For residents and sports enthusiasts in Thailand, this event marks a promising development in the national table tennis program. While Preechayan’s talent is now firmly established on the international stage, his long-term progression into the senior ranks remains a development to watch in the coming seasons.