MFA and Thailand Foundation congratulated Atthaya Thitikul for her outstanding role in enhancing Thailand’s reputation, prestige, and positive image among international audiences
On 3 September 2026, Ms. Jaithai Upakarnitikaset, Director-General of the Department of Information and Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, and Ambassador Tharit Charungvat, Secretary-General of the Thailand Foundation, jointly announced the Laureate of the “Thailand’s Public Diplomacy Award 2026” (TPDA2026). The announcement came after the meeting of the Board of the Thailand Foundation on 1 September 2026 that decided to confer the TPDA2026 upon Ms. Atthaya Thitikul, or “Pro Jeeno/Pro Jeen,” in recognition of her outstanding contributions and achievements over nearly a decade, which have significantly enhanced the reputation, prestige, and positive image of Thailand and the Thai people on the international stage.
Pro Jeeno is a Thai professional golfer whose remarkable achievements have earned widespread international recognition. She 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 rose to 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. Through her continued success in professional golf, she has also represented Thainess on the international stage through her open smile, humility, politeness, and consistent wai, earning her the nickname “The Smiling Face of Thai Golf” from international media. In addition, Pro Jeeno serves as an inspiring role model for younger generations and demonstrates her commitment to public service through JK Golf Charity.
The Thailand’s Public Diplomacy Award was initiated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand and the Thailand Foundation with a view to honor individuals, groups, or organizations, 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 inspire these individuals, groups, or organizations to continue their valuable contributions and to raise public awareness that everyone can play a role in advancing Thailand’s public diplomacy.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Thailand Foundation wish to express their appreciation to all those who submitted nominations for this year’s Award. Details of the “Thailand’s Public Diplomacy Award 2026 Presentation Ceremony” for Ms. Atthaya Thitikul will be announced in due course.
