Thai female boxer Janjaem Suwannapheng who wins bronze medal in the Paris Olympics, has said that she gave her best but struggled against her opponent.
Speaking after losing to Algeria’s Imane Khelif in the welterweight semi-final, Janjaem said Khelif’s speed and long reach made it difficult for her to engage effectively.
Khelif’s jabs were heavy and that the Algerian was quicker than usual.
Khelif, a silver medallist at the 2022 World Championships and the central figure in a gender dispute, defeated Janjaem by a unanimous decision early this morning, Bangkok time.
Janjaem thanked all her supporters in Thailand, especially her parents, who are at home in Nong Khai province.
Reflecting on her performance, Janjaem said, “I am sorry that I only won bronze, but I am returning home with a medal anyway.”
At 23, Janjaem was the only Thai boxer to win an Olympic medal this time and is the first female Thai boxer to do so.
In her hometown in Nong Khai’s Faorai district, a projector was set up at a kindergarten for the live broadcast from Paris and the venue was crowded, despite the match starting around 4am.
Among the crowd were Janjaem’s parents, Sunan and Rungrudee.
Sunan and Rungroj Suwannapheng
Her father expressed pride in his daughter’s performance, saying that, although she lost to the Algerian, he is proud of her efforts, adding with a smile, “I believe my daughter has won the hearts of all Thais.”
Local villagers also expressed their joy at seeing Janjaem compete in the Olympics.
One villager told reporters, “I have watched her since she was young. It is unbelievable that an upcountry girl can achieve so much. I am sure everyone here feels proud of her efforts and we will continue to support her in her future endeavours.”
