Thai badminton star Pink’s B sample confirms banned substance result

BANGKOK — 28 September 2026, Thai badminton player Pitchamon “Pink” Opas-iamkajorn has had her positive test for the banned substance furosemide confirmed after the result of her B sample matched that of her A sample, according to Thailand’s Minister of Tourism and Sports Surasak Phancharoenworakul.

Pitchamon was provisionally suspended after testing positive for furosemide, ruling her out of the 2026 Asian Games. Her B sample was sent for testing on 24 September 2026.

Surasak said the B sample result had now been released and confirmed the same finding as the A sample, meaning the prohibited substance was detected in Pitchamon’s sample.

He said furosemide is a diuretic commonly associated with certain cosmetic or medical uses. While badminton does not have weight categories, he said the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) rules apply to athletes across all sports and genders.

Surasak added that Pitchamon could face disciplinary sanctions, although the circumstances surrounding how the substance entered her body would also be considered.

He said it was possible the substance could have come from medication or cosmetic products whose labels did not clearly list the prohibited ingredient, potentially resulting in unintentional use.

Pitchamon will have to pursue an appeal regarding the case, he said.