KUALA LUMPUR: Buriram United's Theerathon Bunmathan apologised for his inappropriate behaviour during last week's Asian Champions League Elite (ACLE) match against Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT).
The 34-year-old Thai international sparked controversy when he pinched JDT's Arif Aiman Hanapi below the waist, leading to his dismissal in the first half at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium in Iskandar Puteri.
The incident quickly went viral on social media, drawing widespread criticism from fans.
Theerathon issued a formal apology on Thursday.
"I want to sincerely apologise for my inappropriate behaviour during the match," he posted on Instagram.
"I deeply regret losing control of my emotions, and I realise this should never have happened. It was a moment of poor judgment, and I am truly disappointed in myself."
The left-back also apologised to his club and its supporters, expressing regret for setting a poor example, particularly for younger fans who look up to him as a role model.
"I ask the younger generation to learn from my mistake and take the positive lessons from my actions, not the negative ones. I am deeply sorry, and I promise to be more mindful of my conduct in the future," he said.
Theerathon concluded by thanking his supporters for their understanding.
"I appreciate the support I've received, and I apologise from the bottom of my heart," he added.