Thailand win Asian Games' first eSports medal

In a groundbreaking moment for esports, Thailand secured the first-ever esports medal at the Asian Games, claiming the bronze in a playoff against Vietnam in the mobile game "Arena of Valor." This landmark achievement adds significant weight to the video game industry's aspirations for inclusion in the Olympic program.

While esports was featured as a demonstration tournament at the Jakarta Asian Games five years ago, it has now earned the status of a medal event in Hangzhou, marking a critical step in the industry's quest for recognition on the international sporting stage. Teams and individual competitors are vying for seven gold medals across various titles, including online soccer and multiplayer battle arena games.

The esports tournament at Hangzhou's Esports Centre has witnessed an enthusiastic response from Chinese fans, highlighting the enduring popularity of esports in the region. This is despite local regulations that restrict gaming time for children. The lively atmosphere at the event, marked by thundering music and live commentary, has further underscored the fervor for esports in China.

The bronze medal clash in "Arena of Valor" featured a team of five Thai gamers—Sorawat Boonphrom, Anusak Manpdong, Chayut Suebka, Vatcharanan Thaworn, and Kawee Wachiraphas—emerging victorious with a 2-0 triumph over their Vietnamese counterparts. Developed by a subsidiary of Chinese tech giant Tencent, "Arena of Valor" enjoys immense popularity in Asia.

The players engaged in a high-octane contest, with their small screens ablaze as they communicated with teammates via headsets, creating an intense gaming spectacle that enthralled fans. Following the victory, Sorawat Boonphrom, a Bangkok native who turned professional a decade ago, expressed his elation, stating, "We feel excited and great. The feeling is good, so good."

The gold medal match in esports, also featuring "Arena of Valor," took place in the evening session, with Malaysia and China competing for the historic first gold medal in this burgeoning sport.

SportsLigue