Thailand’s Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul Elected as BWF President for 2025-2029
Thailand’s very own Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul has made history by being elected unopposed as the new Badminton World Federation (BWF) President for the term 2025-2029. The announcement was made at the 86th BWF Annual General Meeting held in Xiamen, China on Saturday. This marks a significant moment in the world of badminton, as Leeswadtrakul becomes only the second woman to hold this prestigious position, following in the footsteps of China’s Lu Shengrong who served from 1993 to 2001.
Leeswadtrakul has been a prominent figure in the badminton world, serving as the president of the Badminton Association of Thailand since 2013. During her tenure, Thailand achieved a remarkable milestone by securing its first-ever Olympic medal in badminton. Kunlavut Vitidsarn’s silver in men’s singles at the Paris Olympics 2024 brought glory to the nation and highlighted the exceptional leadership of Leeswadtrakul in promoting the sport within Thailand.
Aside from her role in badminton, Leeswadtrakul is also a member of the Executive Board of the National Olympic Committee of Thailand, showcasing her dedication to sports at a national level. Her election as the BWF President for the upcoming term signifies a new chapter for the sport, with high hopes for continued growth and development under her leadership.
Succession and New Appointments
Leeswadtrakul takes over from Poul-Erik Høyer, who completed a remarkable 12-year tenure as the BWF President. In recognition of his contributions, Høyer was honored with the title of Honorary Life Vice President by the BWF membership at the AGM. The transition to Leeswadtrakul symbolizes a changing of the guard within the BWF leadership, with a focus on advancing the sport globally.
Additionally, BWF Council member and Paris 2024 CEO Etienne Thobois from France was confirmed as the Deputy President-elect, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to the executive team. The election for BWF Vice President Para Badminton saw France’s Richard Perot emerge victorious over the incumbent Paul Kurzo, setting the stage for new initiatives and developments in the realm of para badminton.
Moreover, the induction of twenty new BWF Council members reflects a diverse and inclusive approach to governance and decision-making within the federation. The influx of fresh perspectives and ideas is expected to invigorate the global badminton community and drive innovation in the sport.
Overall, Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul’s appointment as the BWF President for the 2025-2029 term signals a period of exciting possibilities and advancements in the world of badminton. With her vast experience, leadership qualities, and dedication to the sport, Leeswadtrakul is poised to lead the BWF into a new era of growth, excellence, and inclusivity.
Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul’s Vision for Badminton
As the newly elected BWF President, Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul brings with her a vision for the future of badminton that focuses on inclusivity, innovation, and sustainability. Leeswadtrakul has expressed her commitment to expanding the reach of the sport to new regions and demographics, ensuring that badminton remains accessible and engaging for all. With her background in promoting badminton in Thailand, she aims to leverage her experience to drive grassroots development programs globally, nurturing the next generation of talented players.
Furthermore, Leeswadtrakul is a strong advocate for technological advancements in badminton, recognizing the importance of adopting innovations to enhance the fan experience, improve player performance, and streamline competition management. She plans to collaborate with industry partners to explore cutting-edge technologies that can elevate the sport to new heights, making it more engaging and competitive in the digital age.
In line with her commitment to sustainability, Leeswadtrakul intends to implement eco-friendly practices and initiatives within the BWF, promoting environmental consciousness and responsible stewardship of resources. By integrating sustainability principles into the governance and operations of the federation, she aims to set an example for the global badminton community and inspire positive change in the sports industry as a whole.
Championing Women’s Leadership in Badminton
Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul’s election as the BWF President not only signifies a historic moment for badminton but also serves as a beacon of empowerment for women in sports leadership roles. With her appointment, Leeswadtrakul joins a select group of women who have broken barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields, paving the way for greater gender diversity and representation in the sports governance landscape.
As a trailblazer for women’s leadership, Leeswadtrakul is committed to championing gender equality and empowering women within the badminton community. She envisions a future where female athletes, coaches, administrators, and officials have equal opportunities to excel and contribute to the growth of the sport. Through mentorship programs, leadership development initiatives, and advocacy for gender-inclusive policies, Leeswadtrakul aims to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for all stakeholders in badminton.
Global Collaboration and Partnership
Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul recognizes the importance of collaboration and partnership in advancing the sport of badminton on a global scale. With her extensive network and diplomatic acumen, she plans to strengthen relationships with national federations, international sports organizations, and commercial partners to drive strategic initiatives and expand the reach of badminton worldwide.
By fostering alliances and forging new partnerships, Leeswadtrakul aims to secure resources, expertise, and opportunities that will benefit the growth and development of badminton at all levels. She envisions a collaborative ecosystem where stakeholders work together towards common goals, sharing best practices, knowledge, and experiences to elevate the sport and enhance its impact on communities around the world.
In conclusion, Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul’s presidency heralds a new chapter of progress, innovation, and inclusivity for the Badminton World Federation. With her visionary leadership, dedication to sustainability, advocacy for gender equality, and emphasis on global collaboration, Leeswadtrakul is poised to steer badminton towards a future filled with exciting opportunities and positive transformations.
