Tiny training space can't cramp Thai table tennis star's style

Home training

Orawan's big tournament breakthrough came in 2018 as she won the women's doubles at the Thailand Open with Suthasini Sawettabut.

Now the living room of the home she shares with her boyfriend and nephew has become her training center as she dedicates seven hours a day to preparing for next month's Games.

With a world ranking of 88 and China expected to dominate the podium as usual, Orawan's medal chances are slim, but she is determined to give a good account of herself.

"My goal is to get as close to the final rounds as possible," she says brightly.

For Orawan, even reaching this point represents a huge achievement－a reminder that the Olympic spirit is about more than winning medals.

"At this point of my life, I feel like I've succeeded and my parents and my family are happy," she says.

"Everything's changed, the financial status of my family has improved. It's not yet perfect but we're not struggling like we used to anymore."

AFP