Controversial Incidents Surrounding Jonathan Khemdee and the Final of SEA Games 2023

BANGKAPOS.COM--Controversial Incidents the Final of SEA Games 2023

The final match of the SEA Games 2023 football tournament, held on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, was marred by several incidents.

One of these incidents involved Jonathan Khemdee, a defender from the Thailand national team.

Jonathan Khemdee drew attention for his actions of discarding the iconic doll and silver medal of the SEA Games 2023. Without hesitation, he threw both items towards the spectator stands.

Recently, a video circulated on the @recehtapisayang social media account, showing Jonathan Khemdee's unsporting behavior in throwing away the silver medal of the SEA Games 2023. He was seen taking the silver medal and iconic doll of the SEA Games 2023 with his own hands, without waiting to receive them from the organizers. Subsequently, Khemdee threw the medal into the crowd of spectators at the stadium.

Although Jonathan Khemdee may not have valued the medal, his actions were deemed inappropriate, causing a stir and attracting significant attention.

So, who is Jonathan Khemdee?

Profile of Jonathan Khemdee

Profil Jonathan Khemdee

Jonathan Khemdee is a player of Thai-Danish descent, born in Surin, Thailand, on May 9, 2002. He is currently 21 years old.

This tall player is versatile and can play in various positions, such as central defender, defensive midfielder, or right-back.

Khemdee is hailed as the future star of the Thailand national team.

Currently, he plays for the top-tier Danish club, Odense Boldklub.

During his time in Europe, he experienced a high-quality youth development system.

Notably, Jonathan Khemdee trained with Skarup IF before continuing his journey of learning with FC Svendborg (2014-2015) and Odense Boldklub (2016-2021).

On March 10, 2021, Khemdee made his debut with the latter club, precisely in the quarter-finals of the Danish Cup 2020-2021.

Subsequently, Khemdee signed his first professional contract with OB in July 2022.

However, their contract was mutually terminated on November 21, 2022.

He then decided to return to Thailand.

His first club upon returning was Ratchaburi FC.

So far, Khemdee has made a total of 11 appearances for the Thailand U-22 national team in various competitions.

Acknowledging Retirement after Facing the Indonesia U-22 National Team

Jonathan Khemdee explained that the final match against the Indonesia U-22 national team in the SEA Games 2023 would be his last game with the Thailand national team.

He also expressed appreciation to everyone who had supported him throughout his journey.

"This match will be my last for the Thailand national team."

"I want to thank everyone who has supported and followed me, as well as cheered me on all this time," said Jonathan Khemdee, as quoted by BolaSport.com from his personal Instagram page.

Although he has chosen to retire, Khemdee emphasized that he would give his best as a parting gift.

He conveyed this statement through his personal Instagram page (@jkhemdee17) on Tuesday, May 16, 2023.(*)

(Bangkapos.com/Vigestha Repit)