Bangkok: The Thai swimming team is aiming to secure three gold medals at the upcoming 2025 SEA Games. Key athletes “Mermaid Noey” Kamonchanok Kwanmuang and “Shark Nuan” Tonnam Kantimul, who previously clinched championship titles, are central to this ambitious target.
According to Thai News Agency, the Thai national team, composed of young talents often referred to as sharks and mermaids, is undergoing rigorous training both domestically and internationally. Their goal is to surpass the achievements of the 2023 SEA Games held in Cambodia, where they won a total of 4 gold medals, 11 silver medals, and 7 bronze medals. The preparation for the 2025 SEA Games receives significant financial backing from PTT Public Company Limited, which contributes 15 million baht annually. The team is spearheaded by three former champions: “Mermaid Joy” Jenjira Srisa-ard, “Mermaid Noey” Kamonchanok Kwanmuang, and “Shark Nun” Tonnam Kantimul.
“Coach Tuek” Thanawit Thosakul, Secretary-General of the Aquatics Association of Thailand, acknowledged that Thai athletes are not yet on par with their Singaporean counterparts, who dominated the previous SEA Games with 22 gold medals. Nonetheless, the association remains optimistic about securing three gold medals through their seasoned champions and the women’s water polo team.
Kamonchanok Kwanmuang, the 2023 SEA Games gold medalist in the women’s 400m individual medley, has been undergoing intensive training. She expressed excitement and readiness to defend her title despite facing stiff competition from Vietnam, whose team has made notable progress. Her goal remains to retain her SEA Games championship.
Similarly, Tonnam Kantimul, who secured gold in the men’s 200m backstroke, is preparing for his third SEA Games. Having participated in four events this year, he aims to defend his title and excel in the remaining competitions.
The 2025 SEA Games swimming events are scheduled for December 10-15 at the Sports Authority of Thailand swimming pool. Thai sports enthusiasts are encouraged to support the national team as they strive to challenge the dominant Singaporean team for the gold.