Somluck Kamsing: From Olympic Glory to Legal Turmoil

BANGKOK – Somluck Kamsing, who made history as Thailand's first Olympic gold medalist in boxing, now finds himself facing severe consequences after being convicted of sexual assault against a minor.

On January 23, 2025, the provincial court in Khon Kaen, Somluck's home province, sentenced the 52-year-old to just over three years in prison. This ruling follows the boxer’s involvement in grievous acts characterized by the court as abduction and attempted rape of a 17-year-old girl in December 2023.

The court’s initial sentence was more severe, amounting to four years and eight months, but it was lessened due to Somluck's purported cooperation with legal proceedings. Throughout the trial, he has maintained his innocence despite the gravity of the charges, which also included taking a minor for indecent purposes.

In addition to his prison term, Somluck has been ordered to compensate the victim with 120,000 baht (approximately $3,525) and an additional 50,000 baht ($1,470) to the victim’s guardians. Following the verdict, he indicated to reporters his intentions to appeal the court's decision.

Somluck's journey to fame began in the ring. Known initially for his prowess in traditional Muay Thai, he transitioned to boxing, excelling as a featherweight and achieving Olympic success at the 1996 Atlanta Games. His career, however, has experienced significant ups and downs post-Olympics, including a failed gas station venture, a divorce, and a sporadic return to the boxing scene through exhibition matches. Today, he is more recognized for his roles in Thai television rather than his boxing legacy.

This stark turn of events serves as a reminder of how quickly fortunes can change, marking a critical chapter in the life of a sports icon turned controversial figure.