WHO IS KHUNYING PATAMA LEESWADTRAKUL？
- Member of the International Olympic Committee Since 2017
- Badminton World Federation President Since 2024
- President of Badminton Association of Thailand under Royal Patronage of His Majesty the King
- Chairperson of Arnoma Grand Hotel and Hospitality Group
- Managing Director of G Steel Group (GSTEL)
INSIDE THE TOURNAMENT
Perspective from within the Australian Badminton Open 2025.
During the filming of the official Australian Badminton Open (ABO) documentary in Sydney, Upcloud Studios had the opportunity to sit down with Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul, the President of the Badminton World Federation (BWF), engaging in meaningful conversation. Our discussion came from being inside the event — close to athletes, organisers, scheduling pressures, court operations, and the many decisions that shape a tournament beyond match play.
WHAT BADMINTON IN AUSTRALIA NEEDS NOW
Sustaining tournaments, Building pathways and the role of media.
Khunying Patama spoke about what she believes matters most for badminton right now — how tournaments are sustained, how pathways are built, and what needs to be protected as the sport continues to grow globally as we see many opportunities for the sport to close its gap with other leading global sports. She strongly emphasises that Australia can take a lead into bringing Badminton to another level globally.
'Australia is a true leader in developing the future standards of our sport.'
Khunying emphasised the importance of bringing badminton to a truly global audience, using the hands of the media.
‘The power of media in boosting development of the sport itself’
The stories, the people, and the persistence that sustain the sport matter just as much as the matches themselves, and should be announced.
BEYOND TOURNAMENTS AND MATCHES
Structure, leadership, behind the spotlight.
ABO unfolded at a scale that heavily relies on the strength of love and passion. Being part of the environment that brought such leadership to Sydney spoke volumes about the work happening here — much of it unseen, sustained by long days, precise coordination, and experienced teams operating behind the scenes.
Taking a modest approach. Khunying acknowledges the challenges to keeping badminton alive, exciting and relevant worldwide. She also shared her vision in shaping BWF's strategic blueprint of breaking international barriers to becoming a leading global sport.
The discussion also moved into how the structure behind tournaments work, and the corresponding ecosystems that support them, the balance between commercial pressure and sporting integrity, and what it takes for the sport to grow stably, particularly in developing regions like Australia.
WHAT HAPPENTS OFF COURT?
What is unseen to the audience that shapes the future of Badminton.
Being part of this exchange reinforced something we felt throughout ABO: while matches decide outcomes, the future of the sport is shaped just as much by what happens off court. Much of that work unfolds quietly through alignment, long-term thinking, and leaders willing to engage directly with the ground they stand on.
Through this interaction with not only Khunying herself, but with the organisers, staff, umpires and volunteers whose efforts rarely stand under the spotlight, we saw them work guided by passion rather than visibility. Carrying out long hours and solving all unseen problems in order to keep everything running. Commitment is what shapes what we can see today.
We are grateful to have been part of this moment, and to have witnessed leadership engage with the tournament at this level. It affirmed the significance of what ABO represents today, and what it has the potential to become.
Below is the exclusive interview with the president in transcript:
Q1: As BWF President, could you share your personal feelings and perspective on the Australian Open 2025?
'Standing here at Sydney Olympic Park, I feel a magical energy. It is more than just a competition venue, it is where the spirit of unity and professionalism truly shines.I must begin by expressing my deepest gratitude to our wonderful hosts. Your hospitality goes far beyond duty. The moments we shared together were not just events, they were warm memories that made us feel truly at home.From a professional perspective, this tournament has proven its world class status as a Super 500 event. The venue is magnificent and the organization is seamless. The proximity between our hotels and the competition arena provides perfect convenience for our technical officials and players.I also admire your openness to innovation and improvement. Your support in helping us implement the new time clock regulations was outstanding, proving that Australia is a true leader in developing the future standards of our sport.But the true heartbeat of this event is your incredible volunteers. I see many familiar faces who have served with dedication for years. Their passion turns hard work into a welcoming atmosphere that comforts us all.To the fans, both here at the Quay Centre and watching online, you are incredible. The energy you create is like the wind beneath the wings of our athletes, pushing them to new heights.And of course, this success is built on the vision of our generous partners. Thank you for believing in the value of this sport.The Australian Open 2025 is not just about finding a winner, it is a celebration of humanity and excellence that we will cherish forever.'
Q2: What can badminton bring to the next generation, and how should Australia nurture this?
'Badminton teaches young people discipline, resilience, and strategic thinking. More importantly, it builds bridges between cultures. When young players compete internationally, they learn respect, friendship, and global citizenship.For Australia, I see tremendous opportunity. When we invest in grassroots programs and bring badminton into schools and communities, we are nurturing not just athletes, but future leaders who will connect Australia with the world. The foundation we build today will shape generations to come.'
Q3: With Brisbane 2032 approaching, what should Australia do now to create lasting badminton legacy?
'Brisbane 2032 is happening now. Every decision today shapes tomorrow's legacy.I believe Australia could focus on four areas. Developing young talent who will peak in 2032. Building facilities that serve communities long after the Games. Hosting international tournaments now to create excitement and awareness. Engaging business investment in the entire badminton ecosystem.Brisbane 2032 offers Australia a beautiful chance to transform badminton from a sport people know about into a sport Australians truly embrace. I have deep confidence Australia will seize this opportunity, and BWF stands ready to support this journey together.'
Q4: How can Australia leverage its sporting culture to elevate badminton through hosting international tournaments?
'Australia understands excellence and the power of sport to unite communities. Badminton fits naturally here.When Australia hosts international tournaments, something wonderful happens. Local players compete against the best and discover what excellence truly means. Young fans witness the sport's artistry live. Media attention grows. Communities rally together.Each tournament becomes an investment in building badminton culture. It shows Australia's commitment to this sport. With Brisbane 2032 approaching, this is our moment to make that statement together, loudly and clearly.'
Q5: What does badminton need globally, and how can Australia contribute to this vision?
'Badminton's future rests on three pillars: accessibility for everyone, innovation in engagement, and integrity in competition.Australia has so much to offer in advancing this vision. Your expertise in sports marketing, facility management, and athlete development can inspire other nations. Your geographic position naturally bridges Asia, where badminton thrives, with regions where the sport is still growing.When Australia succeeds in badminton, it lifts the entire sport globally. That is the kind of leadership our sport needs, and that is the legacy Brisbane 2032 can create together.'
