Ratchanok Intanon

Ratchanok Intanon (Thai: รัชนก อินทนนท์, RTGS: Ratchanok Inthanon, pronounced [rát.t͡ɕʰā.nók ʔīn.tʰā.nōn]; born 5 February 1995) is a Thai badminton player. She has etched her name into badminton history through unparalleled achievements. She first made waves globally by becoming the first player to win three consecutive World Junior Championships titles from 2009 to 2011. Her transition to the senior level was equally historic; in 2013, at age 18, she became the youngest-ever World Champion in the women's singles. Her dominance extended to the continental stage when she captured the gold medal at the 2015 Asian Championships, further solidifying her reputation as one of the most technically gifted players in the world. This is best exemplified by her relaxed hitting motion and light footwork, which has been described as "balletic" by badminton commentators Gillian Clark.

Ratchanok has been a frequent competitor in the SEA Games, winning the individual gold medal in the women's singles and serving as the backbone of the national team. Thailand secured four gold medals in the women's team event at the SEA Games.