Golfer Atthaya Thitikul Named Laureate of Thailand's Public Diplomacy Award 2026

Thailand's Public Diplomacy Award 2026 has been conferred on the professional golfer Atthaya Thitikul, widely known as Pro Jeeno. The announcement was made on 3 September 2026 by Jaithai Upakarnitikaset, Director-General of the Department of Information and Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, together with Ambassador Tharit Charungvat, Secretary-General of the Thailand Foundation, following the decision of the Foundation's board on 1 September 2026.

The citation recognises nearly a decade of achievement that has, in the announcement's words, significantly enhanced the reputation, prestige and positive image of Thailand and the Thai people internationally. Atthaya made history at the age of 14 as the youngest golfer in the world at the time to win a professional golf tournament, and later reached World No. 1 in the Rolex Women's World Golf Rankings at the age of 19, holding the top position for a total of 40 weeks. The announcement also notes her conduct on the international stage — an open smile, humility, politeness and a consistent wai, which earned her the nickname "The Smiling Face of Thai Golf" from international media — and her public service work through JK Golf Charity.

Thailand's Public Diplomacy Award was initiated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Thailand Foundation to honour individuals, groups or organisations, whether Thai or foreign, who have significantly enhanced the reputation, prestige and positive image of Thailand, Thai people and Thainess among international audiences. The award also aims to encourage continued contributions and to raise public awareness that anyone can play a part in Thailand's public diplomacy.

The Ministry and the Foundation thanked all those who submitted nominations this year. Details of the presentation ceremony are to be announced later.