Tianjin, China, August 31, 2026: Thailand made volleyball history on Sunday, August 30, overcoming China in a gripping five-set final to take the AVC Women’s Volleyball Continental Championship Tianjin 2026 title and secure the country’s first-ever qualification for the Olympic Games.
The defending Asian champions prevailed 3-2 (25-20, 11-25, 23-25, 25-18, 15-10) before 9,390 spectators at the Tianjin Olympic Center Gymnasium, completing a dramatic comeback from 2-1 down to capture the continental crown and the coveted direct qualification berth for the LA 2028 Olympic Games.
It was a landmark moment for Thai women’s volleyball, turning a long-held Olympic dream into reality on one of the biggest nights in the country’s sporting history.
In his second stint with the team, head coach Kiattipong Radchatagriengkai was out of words after his team's incredible accomplishment.
"I see it as a miracle," he said. "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."
Sasipaporn Janthawisut delivered a standout performance for Thailand, leading all scorers with 28 points, including 25 spikes and three service aces.
Middle blocker Thatdao Nuekjang produced a major performance at the net with 18 points, including seven blocks, while Chatchu-On Moksri contributed 17 points.
China was led by Wu Mengjie and Zhuang Yushan, who scored 21 points apiece, while Wang Yuanyuan added 10.
The captain of the Thai national team, star setter Pornpun Guedpard, was recognized as the Most Valuable Player in their campaign in Tianjin.
"This is a big moment for our country," Pornpun, 33, remarked. "This is a dream coming true. Holding the ticket to LA 2028 was unbelievable.
“I had a feeling that we could win. After we lost the third set, I just told our players to be themselves. I didn't care if we'd win or lose. I just wanted us to play a fun game and to play together."
Japan finished third and Iran fourth.
(AVC/Volleyball World)
