Kunlavut Vitidsarn

Thai badminton player who became the youngest men's singles World Champion at age 20, known for his aggressive attacking style and rapid rise to the top.

Born in Bangkok on December 5, 2001, Kunlavut Vitidsarn emerged from Thailand's junior badminton development system to become the country's most successful men's singles player. He began playing badminton at age seven and quickly distinguished himself in youth competitions, winning multiple junior national titles before transitioning to international competition as a teenager. Vitidsarn's professional career gained momentum in the early 2020s as he established himself on the BWF World Tour circuit. His breakthrough came through consistent performances against top-ranked opponents, demonstrating the tactical awareness and physical conditioning that would define his playing style. Known for his powerful attacking game and court coverage, he developed a reputation for defeating higher-ranked players in major tournaments. His victories over former world number one Viktor Axelsen showcased his ability to compete with the sport's elite players. The pinnacle of Vitidsarn's career arrived at the 2023 BWF World Championships in Copenhagen, where he claimed the men's singles title to become Thailand's first-ever world champion in the discipline. This historic victory represented a breakthrough not only for his individual career but for Thai badminton as a whole. His championship run demonstrated the technical precision and mental fortitude that had been developing throughout his early twenties. Vitidsarn's World Championship triumph marked a significant milestone for badminton in Southeast Asia, inspiring a new generation of Thai players and elevating the sport's profile in his home country. His success challenged the traditional dominance of players from badminton powerhouses like Denmark, China, and Indonesia in men's singles competition. As one of the youngest world champions in recent years, his achievement represents the emergence of a new generation of elite players capable of competing at the highest level of international badminton.

Aggressive attacking player with strong smashes and excellent court coverage

First Thai male badminton player to win World Championship

• BWF World Championships 2022
• Yonex Thailand Open 2021