Nakhon ratchasima: "Rung" Rungroj Thainiyom, a celebrated figure in para table tennis, has set his sights on securing three gold medals at the upcoming 13th ASEAN Para Games. The event is scheduled to take place from January 20-26, 2026, in Nakhon Ratchasima, and the Thai national para table tennis team is currently in the midst of intensive final preparations.

According to Thai News Agency, the Thai para table tennis team, supported by the Sports Authority of Thailand, is divided into two training groups. The wheelchair table tennis players are training in Nakhon Ratchasima, while the standing table tennis players are honing their skills at Thonburi University, Phetkasem 110. Rungroj, the world number one and 2012 Paralympic champion, expressed that the team is more than 90 percent ready, with the remaining focus on adapting to the competition venue.

Rungroj indicated that from January 15, 2026, the athletes will have the opportunity to practice at the competition venue. This will help them adjust to the game tables, lighting, and simulate match conditions. He emphasized the importance of avoiding injuries during the final stages of preparation, as the team has been training since February.

Rungroj plans to compete in three events: men's singles, men's doubles, and mixed doubles, with the aim of winning gold in all. He encouraged Thai sports fans to support all athletes participating in the ASEAN Para Games, aiming for the Thai team to achieve the highest gold medal tally.

The table tennis events will be held at Central Korat Shopping Mall in Nakhon Ratchasima Province. In the previous ASEAN Para Games in 2023, held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, the Thai table tennis team secured 5 gold medals, 6 silver medals, and 1 bronze medal.