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Sixteen-year-old Thai rocker Nene Royal has won the latest season of America’s Got Talent, becoming the first contestant from Thailand to claim the competition’s top prize.
Royal, whose real name is Rattikarn Amloy, secured the $1 million grand prize after delivering a performance of “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes during the final in California.
She emerged ahead of nine other finalists, including magicians, canine performers and a robot dance crew.
“I’m very happy and emotional right now,” Royal said after her victory.
The young guitarist first captured widespread attention during her audition with a performance of “Zombie” by The Cranberries. The audition has reportedly attracted about 20 million views.
She later received a Golden Buzzer after performing “Black Hole Sun”, earning her a direct place in the competition’s later stages.
Royal also performed “The Emptiness Machine” with rock band Linkin Park before advancing to the final.
The Phuket-born musician began playing guitar at the age of seven and has previously spoken about her ambition to become a touring musician.
She is also known for performing at Naka Weekend Market in Phuket, where her historic victory was celebrated by people who had watched her perform there.
The market praised Royal for taking her talent to one of the world’s biggest stages, saying her success had inspired many people.
Royal’s victory also generated excitement among Thai viewers, many of whom followed the finale through a YouTube livestream after being unable to watch the programme live on NBC.
Thailand’s Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul congratulated Royal, saying her achievement had brought honour to the country and pride to Thai people.
The Thai government’s public relations department also celebrated the victory, highlighting Royal’s confidence in carrying her Thai identity onto an international stage.
Royal’s former school, Kajonkiet International School, joined the celebrations, expressing pride in her achievement.
Her victory marks a significant moment for Thai entertainment on the global stage and highlights the journey of a teenage guitarist from Phuket who has risen to international prominence through her music.
