Ryu talks table tennis and acting

Sport is good for both the body and the mind. Table tennis has helped Vachirawich Aranthanawong (Ryu) to beat his computer game addiction, become more active and learn to handle his emotions. Ryu started playing at 9 years old, and after practising very hard and entering many competitions, he was selected to join the Thai national youth team when he was 14.

Since then, Ryu has stayed in the top three ranking in competitions in the kingdom. Due to his good looks, last year his photo went viral in an online post about handsome Thai athletes. Talent scouts found him and he signed a contract with Channel 3. But this year he’s been working on 4Nologue’s special project Nine By Nine (9x9), which features nine performers acting in the TV drama Blood Isn’t Always Thicker Than Water and singing an album together. 

S Weekly met up with Ryu at 4Nologue where he told about sport and showbiz.

Why did you start playing table tennis?

Ryu: I think it was destiny. My father tried to convince me to play many sports because I was addicted to computer games. I visited a friend and found a table tennis bat and ball there. I started to play and really liked it. I told my father and he immediately bought me all the equipment. 

Why did you take it seriously?

Ryu: After playing for a while, I entered a competition and won the third prize. The result inspired me to try harder.

Do you get tired practising seven days a week?

Ryu: Of course, but it’s my duty. My parents have dedicated a lot to support me. They want me to improve my skills. My father even hired a private coach for me, so I could practise on Sundays.

What's the best thing about being a part of the national youth team?

Ryu: It teaches me discipline. I’m more punctual and it inspired my goal to join a professional national team.
 
What are your biggest problems?

Ryu: Pain and injuries. Players practise very hard, but we sometimes don’t warm up properly and can get hurt. In the past, I had shoulder pain because of tendon inflammation that stopped me playing for three months.

How do you deal with losing?

Ryu: At the age of 13 to 14, I was a hothead. When I lost, I banged the table, whined and sometimes even cried. I felt stressed because I had high expectations. I got better after I told myself that I can’t stay in the top three forever. I’ll do my best and accept the results. 

Will you quit playing table tennis now you’re an actor?

Ryu: Never. I still play, but don’t have high hopes like before. I play for my own pleasure. I don’t dream of becoming a professional player anymore.

Why did you decide to work in showbiz?

Ryu: I wanted to pay my tuition fees by myself. I started working as a model before joining 9x9.

What are you best at - acting, singing or dancing?

Ryu: It’s difficult because I had none of these skills before and I started from scratch. But I like dancing the most.