BANGKOK — 20 May 2026, two Thai women’s water polo players preparing for the 20th Asian Games have helped their Israeli club win the Israel Cup, with Thailand’s head coach describing them as key members of the national team.
Panthila Asayut, known as “Amp”, and Raksina Ruangsapphaisan, known as “Praewa”, currently play professionally for Hapoel Yokneam, one of Israel’s leading water polo clubs.
The pair played important roles as the club secured the Israel Cup title in what coaches described as a historic achievement for Thai athletes competing overseas.
Thailand women’s water polo head coach Maksim Kordonskiy said he was proud of the players’ discipline and determination.
He described the achievement as the first time Thai athletes had won a national-level club title abroad at such a high level.
Maksim said competing in the Israeli league, the Israel Cup and European-level tournaments would help improve the players’ technical abilities, tactical understanding and mental strength ahead of future international competitions.
He added that both athletes would be key members of Thailand’s squad for the 20th Asian Games, although success would depend on the collective strength of the entire team.
Hapoel Yokneam are scheduled to compete in the Israeli league semi-finals on 28 May and the national championship final on 30 May.
If the club wins both competitions, the two Thai players would complete a domestic double in Israel.
