Cover Story: Win Metawin is Speeding to Success
Win Metawin Opas-iamkajorn, one of Thailand’s hottest stars today is joined by the iconic PUMA Speedcat and arrives on a fiery fashion set inspired by fast-paced movements, colours, and a touch of rebellion.
Beyond his acclaim as an actor and singer, Win Metawin Opas-iamkajorn has solidified his status as an international fashion icon, gracing numerous fashion week shows and collaborating with world-class brands. The 25-year-old is now the official face of PUMA Thailand, marking a significant partnership with the globally renowned sportswear giant.
“It is such an honour to be a part of the PUMA Family as a brand ambassador for PUMA Thailand. PUMA’s fashion-forward athletic wear is a perfect match for my lifestyle,” says Win.
“PUMA masterfully blends athleticism and style. Their unwavering commitment to performance innovation is evident in every product, making them a go-to for both workouts and everyday adventures. I can effortlessly incorporate PUMA’s many pieces into my wardrobe, from the office to the gym and beyond. Their sneakers, in particular, have become my trusted companions. PUMA’s inclusive approach, catering to diverse ages and genders, solidifies its position as a truly universal brand. If you haven’t experienced the PUMA difference firsthand, owning at least a pair of their sneakers is a must. You will love them as much as I do.”
Hi Win! Since we’re here at this PUMA cover shoot, let’s start with your favourite PUMA sneakers.
The PUMA Palermo is my absolute go-to. Its unparalleled comfort and versatility make it a staple in my wardrobe. With a diverse colour palette, it’s incredibly easy to style for any occasion, though black and white will always be classic favourites.
The PUMA Speedcat, which I’m wearing today for the shoot, adds a playful edge to any outfit. For me, it’s an instant mood-booster, perfect for days when I want to inject some fun into my look. Inspired by the high-octane world of motorsports, the Speedcat seamlessly transitions from the racetrack to everyday life, exemplified by the iconic red and black colourway. As always, PUMA consistently delivers a diverse range of styles and collections.
How do you mix and match such athletic items to your daily life?
I tend to mix and match my wardrobe. Sneakers and jeans create a casual yet stylish look. It also depends on everyone’s preferences. Fashion today is more open, allowing us to dress however we want. PUMA products’ diversity and range of expression enable them to be incorporated into various styles and settings, including formal occasions. Pairing sneakers with luxury items like what we’re doing today can be a bold fashion statement. PUMA kills every look.
“I’M EAGER TO
GROW OLDER. I
STILL FEEL LIKE I
HAVEN’T FULLY
MATURED YET, AND
IT FEELS LIKE I’VE
SPENT FOREVER IN
ADOLESCENCE.”
Let’s move on to your personal life. What is one word that best describes yourself in the past and present?
For my past self, I’d say “fun”, because I didn’t have any clear goals then. I just enjoyed life with my friends and got excited by new things. Now, I’d say “caring”, because I’m on a path with a clear goal in mind, and I’m working hard to achieve it.
Imagine if you were a car. What speed are you travelling at right now?
I’m probably cruising at 80km/hour, which is where I can still safely hit the brakes. I’m definitely more cautious now compared to my fearless younger self. As you grow older, you have more responsibilities. I’m still on the fast lane, but not dangerously so. Sometimes I want to accelerate, but I need to be able to slow down when necessary.
How are you spending most of your time these days?
I’m focusing on work and my business; the latter is growing and there are many changes going on, so I need to spend my time to take the best care of it. When I have free time, I always like to go for a workout.
And you’d never waste your time on…?
Things that are not useful or healthy, physically and mentally. Those can often cause burnout.
What is one recent thing you’re proud of?
The movie Under Parallel Skies, where I had the opportunity to star alongside Filipino actress Jenella Salvador. It is my dream to work with international crews, or even just be part of international projects, so I’m really proud of doing this film.
You’ve been working abroad a lot this past two years. What have you learned from the experience?
Working in different countries has been a real eye-opener. Every place has its own way of doing things and its own kinds of people. I’ve had to learn to go with the flow and figure out what works. Working on Under Parallel Skies was amazing — I learned a ton. And being PUMA’s guy in Thailand has been awesome too. I’m about to go to Malaysia for one of their events, and I can’t wait to check that out!
Tell us about your upcoming project Enigma 2.
I’m reprising my role as Ajin in Enigma 2. The character is incredibly challenging; it’s unlike anything I’ve done before. The story itself is unique, incorporating supernatural elements which demands a high level of imagination. Crafting this character was no easy feat. I had to do extensive research and preparation to truly understand him. I was determined to revisit this role before I forgot all its intricacies! [Laughs] This project has pushed me beyond my limits, with experiences like wire work, underwater scenes, and intense action sequences. It fulfils a lifelong dream, which is both exhausting and incredibly rewarding.
You work hard but also take great care of yourself in terms of exercise and diet. For example, you eat only once a day.
I’m on a diet, but I don’t eat once a day, every day. More so every other day. If I happen to overeat, I’d just eat less the next day to balance it out. How am I able to do that? Well, I just want to look great! [Laughs] That’s it. I don’t like seeing my chubby cheeks in the mirror.
What’s your remedy for feeling down?
I find it incredibly helpful to talk and share with close friends and family. Sometimes, we get so caught up in the negative that we overlook the positive aspects of a situation. Others may see things differently, which provides a fresh perspective.
Complete the following sentence: I’d love to fill my world with…
Food. Food I cannot live without like Souri macarons. [Laughs] On a more serious note, I’d fill my world with what’s already in it these days. It’s amazing to be surrounded by such great people. And this one: I’m happiest when… I can make my loved ones happy.
You’re currently 25 years old. Do you want to turn back time or grow older?
I’m eager to grow older. I still feel like I haven’t fully matured yet, and it feels like I’ve spent forever in adolescence. Now, I’m ready to start a new chapter. I want to reach a point of adulthood where I can support my parents and family.
“[PUMA’S] SNEAKERS,
IN PARTICULAR, HAVE
BECOME MY TRUSTED
COMPANIONS.”
What’s the most valuable lesson in your life so far?
To appreciate and pay attention to the details. Caring about the little things in life is crucial. You cannot change the past, so being mindful from the start can prevent unnecessary regrets and sorrows.
How would you like to be remembered?
As an artiste who started out and built his fame in Thailand, breaking into the international scene was initially a faraway goal. However, thanks to these past couple of years, I’m steadily getting closer to achieving my dream of becoming a global figure and elevating Thai entertainment on the world stage.
Lastly, what would a soundtrack of your life look like?
Bodyslam’s songs really resonate with my life. Like “Saeng Soot Tai” (“The Last Light”), which is about life’s challenges and how perseverance can help over come them. “Kwam Chuea” (“Belief”) is another favourite; it’s about the power of self-belief. Then there’s “Proh Bang” (“Fragile”), which captures that feeling of being overwhelmed by responsibilities and the importance of coping with stress.
Photography INTRACHAI WATMAKAWAN
Styling WATCHARACHAI NUN-NGAM
Production AKEERA SASUNGNERN
Hair AKKARAPONG PUNKAEW
Makeup YOTINY CHUAYSTI
Photography assistants CHUDCHPONG AUMPONRAT, SURATHAM THEPPHASUT and WANCHAI ARREERAK
Styling assistants TISAKORN GUNCHORNNOK and PANITHAN PRASONGSANTI
