Most watched sports in Thailand
While Thailand may be best known for the likes of its rich cultural heritage, stunning views, and warm hospitality, it also has a thriving sports scene. There is a deep passion for traditional sports, such as Muay Thai, but there is increasing interest in international sports which are now gaining a strong following. Sports fans are now watching, and engaging, with the likes of football, basketball, motorsports, and more. As you read on, we’re going to take a closer look at just which sports in Thailand get the biggest audiences.
Basketball as a Rapidly Growing Phenomenon
While you may not immediately associate Thailand with basketball, the sport has seen a surge in popularity over the last 10 years or so. This is mainly down to the influence that the NBA has had in the country. Younger audiences enjoy watching international leagues and are inspired by great athletes such as LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Giannis Antetokounmpo. The fact that there is access to matches via live streaming means that Thai fans can easily ดูบาสสด nba, and this makes it easier for them to engage with the game.
At a local and domestic level, the Thailand Basketball League has done much for the sport, in terms of nurturing talent and boosting overall interest in the sport. The Thai national basketball team has also helped to draw spectators to the sport having made great achievements in regional competitions of late.
Muay Thai
Muay Thai is Thailand’s traditional combat sport. Known as the ‘Art of Eight Limbs’ this sport is about the use of fists, elbows, knees, and shins. This makes it one of the most demanding martial arts in existence. The sport is naturally followed by people in the country as it is deeply ingrained in the culture and it’s something that people are keen to watch as much as they possibly can. Stadiums such as Rajadamnern and Lumpinee are regularly sold out, and bouts that are televised bring in huge audiences.
Muay Thai has also gained recognition at an international level, with fighters from around the world heading to Thailand to train. Major events and championship fights now feature both local and international fighters and this has led to it drawing an even larger viewer base.
Football, the International Favourite
Football is massively popular and is often referred to as being the most popular sport in the world. It also has a dedicated following in Thailand, where locals are keen to watch as much of the sport as they possibly can. There are literally millions of viewers here, as Thai people flock around screens to watch both domestic and international actions. It’s the Thai League 1 that captures the attention of local supporters who keenly follow clubs such as Buriram United and Bangkok United.
There is also an immense passion for European football here, with the English Premier League being the most watched. Clubs such as Liverpool, Manchester City, and Chelsea have a significant fan base in Thailand and sports bars are often full as people flock to watch their favourites play.
The Popularity of Badminton
Thailand has enjoyed amazing success on the international stage when it comes to badminton, and this has helped to make it a firm favourite in the country. Players such as Ratchanok Intanon and Kunlavut Vitidsarn have ensured that Thailand has had global recognition with this sport. By winning major tournaments, these players have inspired a whole new generation, keen to follow in their footsteps.
Badminton has a significant TV audience in Thailand. Locals tune in to watch major events, such as the All England Open, the BWF World Championships, and the Olympics. When this is combined with the grassroots efforts in the country, it’s easy to see why the sport is so popular.
Volleyball
Volleyball has become hugely popular in Thailand over the last few years. This is particularly the case with women’s volleyball. When looking at the Thai women’s national team, has a solid following thanks to the fact that the team has had some great performances both at regional and international levels. Competitions that attract big audiences include the FVIB Volleyball Nations League and the Asian Games.
When Thailand’s national team is playing, this will almost always be televised or made available for streaming. This draws in millions of viewers who enjoy the fast-paced nature of the game which makes it one of the most engaging sports to watch.
Golf and a Touch of Prestige
It may be more closely linked to affluent communities in Thailand, but golf also has a dedicated following in the country. The sport grew an impressive following thanks to the success of Thai professionals such as Kiradech Aphibarnrat and Ariya Jutanugarn. These players have competed in and won, tours such as the PGA and LPGA.
Thailand also has some of the best golf courses in the world and hosts international tournaments such as the Thailand Open. This makes the sport even more attractive to Thai viewers who are passionate about the action taking place at home.
Thailand has an interest in a diverse range of sports. The ones that we have looked at are the ones that generate the biggest viewing numbers, but the reality is that the Thai population has a broad interest and that many sports are growing a loyal following of their own.
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