Thailand‘s women’s volleyball team made history on Sunday (30 August), qualifying for the Olympic Games for the first time by winning the 2026 AVC Women’s Volleyball Continental Championship.
The Thai women punched their tickets to LA28 after coming from behind to defeat hosts, the People’s Republic of China, 3-2 (25-20, 11-25, 23-25, 25-18, 15-10) in a dramatic final in Tianjin.
“I see it as a miracle,” said Thailand coach Kiattipong Radchatagriengkai after his side successfully defended their Asian crown.
“It’s fantastic. I’d like to thank all the players and the staff.
“This is our dream and our country’s dream to go to the Olympics. And now we got it, I can’t believe it.”
Outside hitter Sasipaporn Janthawisut top-scored for Thailand with 28 points, including 25 in attack, while veteran Thatdao Nuekjang contributed 18 points, seven coming from blocks.
Chatchu-On Moksri chipped in 17 points as Thailand outscored their opponents 68-59 in attack, though the teams were separated by just one point across five sets, with Thailand finishing 99-98 ahead.
Pornpun Guedpard was named the Most Valuable Player in Thailand’s glittering campaign.
“This is a big moment for our country,” Guedpard said.
“This is a dream coming true. Holding the ticket to LA 2028 was unbelievable.”
Thailand join Canada in booking place at LA28
Playing at the Tianjin Olympic Center Gymnasium, Thailand showed a solid defensive and efficient attacking display to take the first set 25-20. But the hosts quickly responded and silenced the Thais, taking the following set 25-11.
The title holders found themselves under further pressure when the People’s Republic of China raised the tempo, taking a 2-1 lead after winning the third set 25-23.
Needing a fightback to turn their fortunes around, Thailand rediscovered their attacking rhythm and dictated play for a fourth set 25-18 win, forcing the contest into a decider.
A calm and composed display in the fifth set saw Thailand home, as they claimed their fourth continental crown and the direct Asian qualification place for the LA28 Olympic Games.
Sunday’s result added to Thailand’s title triumphs in 2009, 2013 and 2023. They have also qualified for 2027 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Cup, alongside the People’s Republic of China.
Earlier, Japan defeated the Islamic Republic of Iran 3-0 (25-21, 25-16, 26-24) in the third-place play-off, winning the bronze medal and the third direct spot at the World Cup.
Thailand’s historic Olympic qualification came just hours after Canada secured their first spot at the Games in 32 years.
Coach Giovanni Guidetti’s squad won the NORCECA Women’s Volleyball Continental Olympic Qualifier by beating hosts Dominican Republic 3-1 in Santo Domingo.
“It’s so surreal,” said Canada’s setter Brie Fransen. “I’m so proud of the team and staff of how much we have battled through.
“We deserve this and it’s such an amazing feeling to feel the reward of all the work.”
Earlier in the week, Canada won their first NORCECA Women’s Volleyball Continental Championship, beating the USA 3-2 in the final.
