Thailand’s world No. 2 badminton player Kunlavut “View” Vitidsarn is refusing to label himself a favorite for gold at the 2026 Asian Games, saying his recent form and his disappointing performance at the previous Games make the competition a difficult challenge.

Kunlavut, the Paris 2024 Olympic silver medallist, is set to compete at the Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, from 19 September to 4 October.

“I may not be the favorite this time. My form in the past two or three tournaments has not been very good,” Kunlavut said. “I hope to do better than last time.”

The 25-year-old was eliminated in the men’s singles round of 16 at the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou, China. He said he has since regained his fitness and is better prepared for this year’s Games.

“I was eliminated early and my form was not consistent. It may be a little difficult this time, but I believe I have a better chance than before,” he said. “Last time, I had several problems bothering me. Now I have no injuries and have trained and prepared very well for the Asian Games.”

Kunlavut said his biggest opponent may be himself, particularly as he looks to rebuild confidence in his game.

“Right now, I have to fight myself first. I feel that I lack confidence when playing, and sometimes a good game can suddenly go off track,” he said. “The biggest opponent is myself.”

He added that players from every country would pose a strong challenge and that his priority would be to focus on his own performance.

Before heading to Japan, Kunlavut said he needs to sharpen his fitness and speed. He plans to use the China Masters next week as a warm-up tournament to assess his form ahead of the Asian Games.

“It will allow me to see my form and whether I have a chance of winning a medal at the Asian Games,” he said.

Kunlavut remains one of Thailand’s leading medal hopes after winning Olympic silver in Paris in 2024 and the world championship title in 2023.