Banlung blows his rivals away

Star storms to world title with sizzling act

- TOR CHITTINAND

Banlung Tubtimdang, who struck gold in Wuxi, China, has set his sights on SEA Games glory and LA 2028.

(WORLDTAEKWONDO.ORG)

Banlung Tubtimdang's scintillating gold-winning effort at the 2025 World Taekwondo Championships on Tuesday night has reignited Thailand's hopes for further success at the upcoming 2025 SEA Games and the 2028 Olympics.

Banlung delivered a career-defining performance in Wuxi, China, to capture the men's 68kg crown.

After settling for silver in the 63kg division at the 2023 championships in Baku, the 22-year-old Thai fighter showed his growth and resilience by overcoming South Korea's Seong Yu-Hyeon in the final.

He dominated the opening round 10-5 before sealing the title with a sharp counterattacking display in the second, which he won 7-1.

His path to the top of the podium was equally impressive.