A tragedy struck in southern Thailand on Saturday when a 24-year-old football player was killed by lightning during a local football match in Sukhaputong. The video, which was shot and circulated widely on social media, has revived discussions regarding the safety of players and the weather management of the game itself in all stadiums.
The victim, Sopwan Awai, was in a football match when the weather turned deadly. Despite rainfall that had struck the field, players continued playing, and a lightning bolt struck the field, sending players and spectators into panic.
Witnesses said the lightning strike hit the area where players were gathered on the field. Awai collapsed to the ground and did not move after the impact, lying motionless for a few seconds. Players, match officials, and spectators rushed to help as emergency services were called to the scene.
Medical personnel arrived quickly and attempted to revive the young footballer. Despite the efforts of emergency responders, Awai succumbed to his injuries. The lightning strike caused severe trauma, and he died at the scene, the police said.
In addition to the fatality, at least 12 other players were injured during the incident. Some of them suffered shock, burns, and other weather-related injuries. Most of the injured players were reported to be in stable condition.
The incident occurred during the Golok FA Cup, a local football tournament between amateur and Thai-Malaysian teams. The match was ongoing between Sam Colts and Abu X Nong Sirin when the lightning strike took place. The tournament is a popular community sport that attracts local players and fans from the surrounding regions.
As videos of the incident spread on social media platforms, thousands of users expressed grief and condolences for the deceased player's family. Many also wondered why the match continued despite the worsening weather conditions.
A football player was killed and 12 others were injured after a lightning strike hit the field during a match in Thailand. pic.twitter.com/XLAMhPxqgV
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One social media user said sporting events should be suspended when thunderstorms strike, describing the incident as devastating and avoidable. Another user blamed organisers for not doing enough for player safety and called for stronger weather-monitoring measures at amateur sporting events.
Thailand is also struck by lightning, and the death toll from lightning strikes is not uncommon. Between 2020 and 2024, at least 283 people reportedly died in Thailand after being struck by lightning, with many dying instantaneously.
Experts say weather warnings should be followed and outdoor activities should be halted in case of thunderstorms. Football fields and other open spaces can be especially dangerous during lightning storms because players are often the tallest objects in exposed areas.
Police Chief Thun Sirikhunt said emergency medical teams worked to save the victim but were unable to overcome the extent of the injuries caused by the lightning strike. Local sports authorities will have to re-examine the safety of outdoor competitions when the weather is bad.
Sopwan Awai's death has left the local football community in mourning. Friends, teammates, and supporters have paid tribute to the young player, remembering him as a true competitor who was passionate about the game. The tragedy has been widely shared across Thailand and neighbouring Malaysia, serving as a cruel reminder of the unpredictable nature of the game and the importance of prioritising safety over competition.
