Thailand beat Malaysia 2-0 for seventh Asian Games men’s regu sepak takraw gold
Thailand beat Malaysia 15-9, 15-8 in Japan on September 29 to win their seventh Asian Games men’s regu title after a key second-set substitution
- Thailand defeated Malaysia 2-0 in the men's regu sepak takraw final at the Asian Games, with set scores of 15-9 and 15-8.
- The victory marks Thailand's seventh gold medal in the event and a successful defense of their title.
- This win served as revenge for Thailand after they had lost the separate men's team regu final to Malaysia earlier in the same Games.
Thailand retained the Asian Games men’s regu sepak takraw title with a 2-0 victory over Malaysia in Japan on September 29, 2026, winning 15-9, 15-8 to claim their seventh gold in the event. The final brought together the sport’s long-standing rivals, with defending champions Thailand facing Malaysia, the previous silver medallists. Victory also gave Thailand a measure of revenge after losing the separate men’s team regu final to Malaysia earlier in the Games.
Thailand pull clear to take the opening set
Thailand started with Tanaphon Sapyen, Kritsanapong Nontakote and Wuttinun Kamsanor. The opening exchanges were closely contested, with both sides using strong serves to put their opponents under pressure.
Thailand’s Kritsanapong and Malaysia’s Mohammad Syahir Mohd Rosdi were particularly effective from the service circle. Thailand became more consistent as the set progressed, pulling away through the middle and closing stages to win 15-9 and take a one-set lead.
Pornthep substitution helps Thailand close out victory
Thailand made a flying start to the second set, scoring five unanswered points to lead 5-0. Malaysia responded by bringing on Syahir and Mohamad Azlan Alias, who helped their side win five consecutive points to level at 5-5.
Thailand then introduced Pornthep Tinbangbon, a substitution that helped the defending champions regain control. The Thai side resumed scoring steadily and completed a 15-8 second-set victory to secure the gold medal in straight sets.
