Thailand commenced their Volleyball Nations League (VNL) 2026 campaign with a straight-sets defeat against Serbia. The opening set was a closely fought affair, with Thailand showing resilience by staging a comeback to reach set point at 24-23, but ultimately losing 26-24. In the second set, despite strong performances from emerging players like Papatchaya Phontham and Kantima Aekpatcha, Serbia's steadier play secured them a 25-22 victory. Serbia then capitalized on their momentum in the third set, effectively reading Thailand’s attacks to claim the set 25-19 and seal the match. Serbia's Uzelac was the top scorer with 17 points, while Thailand's Pimpichaya Kokram, Papatchaya Phontham, and Sasipapron Janthawisut each contributed seven points.