Muaythai Shines at the 33rd SEA Games – A Historic Triumph and a Celebration of Regional Growth
The 33rd SEA Games, held from 9–20 December 2025 in Bangkok and Chonburi, marked one of the most successful Muaythai showcases in the event’s history. Hosted at the iconic Lumpinee Boxing Stadium, the competition brought together the finest athletes from across Southeast Asia, delivering unforgettable performances and reaffirming Muaythai’s position as one of the region’s fastest‑growing sports.
Thailand Dominates with 11 Gold Medals
Thailand’s national Muaythai team delivered a commanding performance, securing 11 gold, 6 silver, and 1 bronze—a total of 18 medals and an impressive 84% win rate. This extraordinary achievement played a major role in Thailand’s overall SEA Games success, where the host nation became the first in history to surpass 200 gold medals, finishing with 233 golds and securing their 14th “King of Gold Medals” title.
A Medal Table That Reflects Regional Growth
One of the most significant outcomes of the 33rd SEA Games was the wide distribution of Muaythai medals across Southeast Asia, demonstrating the sport’s rapid development and rising competitiveness throughout the region.
| Position | Delegation | 🥇 Gold | 🥈 Silver | 🥉 Bronze | Total Medals | Win % |
| 1 | Thailand (THA) | 11 | 6 | 1 | 18 | 84% |
| 2 | Malaysia (MAS) | 3 | 3 | 4 | 10 | 52% |
| 3 | Vietnam (VIE) | 2 | 4 | 4 | 10 | 42% |
| 4 | Philippines (PHI) | 2 | 1 | 8 | 11 | 40% |
| 5 | Lao People’s Democratic Republic (LAO) | 0 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 28% |
| 6 | Indonesia (INA) | 0 | 1 | 4 | 5 | 40% |
| 7 | Singapore (SGP) | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 33% |
| 8 | Myanmar Muaythai (MYA) | 0 | 0 | 9 | 9 | 16% |
Historic Firsts Across the Region
The 33rd SEA Games also produced historic milestones for several nations, reflecting the expanding depth and technical level of Muaythai across Southeast Asia.
- Indonesia celebrated a landmark achievement with its first-ever silver medal in the Wai Kru division, earned by Aldento Brillian Bara Pratama, who delivered a powerful performance that surpassed traditional frontrunners such as the Philippines and Vietnam.
- Singapore secured its first-ever Muaythai silver medal through Ginney Teo, marking a breakthrough moment for the nation and inspiring a new generation of athletes.
- Vietnam, the Philippines, Laos, and Myanmar also delivered strong performances, contributing significantly to the medal table and showcasing the increasing competitiveness of Muaythai across all categories.
These achievements highlight the sport’s growing inclusivity, technical sophistication, and cultural resonance throughout the region.
Looking Ahead: Malaysia to Host the 2027 SEA Games
Following the success of Muaythai at the 2025 SEA Games, Malaysia has officially confirmed the inclusion of Muaythai in the 2027 SEA Games, scheduled for 18–29 September 2027.
The 2027 edition will feature an expanded Muaythai programme, reflecting the sport’s evolution and the region’s commitment to gender equality and cultural preservation. The competition will include:
- Muay Combat – expanded male and female weight divisions
- Wai Kru – honouring the ceremonial and spiritual traditions of Muaythai
- Mai Muay disciplines – showcasing classical techniques and artistry
This expansion marks a major step forward for the sport and promises even greater opportunities for athletes across Southeast Asia.