Fadhil Yunus
Brunei Darussalam winger Faiq Jefri Bolkiah’s popularity soared to new heights after his visit to a Thai barbershop made the rounds on social media starting a sudden wave of interest among male followers to emulate his haircut.
The 23-year old has already garnered admiration among Thai supporters since his move to top flight club Chonburi FC in the recent transfer window in December last year.
Faiq’s influence had particularly benefitted Chang Tee Barbershop, a barbershop located in Bangsaen in the Mueang District, as an emerging trend inspired by his signature hairstyle coupled with an influx of customers helped cover some of the losses brought upon by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Since the Bruneian’s international haircut sparked public attention, the barbershop has seen an increase of eight to 10 customers per day.
The widespread interest within the Thai community came after his barber posted a photo of the Brunei international having a haircut on his Facebook page.
According to the barber who cut Faiq’s hair, Teerapat Mungmee, most of his clients hailed from the same club as the Bruneian club and recommended him.
He also said that most of his clients preferred sporting a clean skin fade in an apparent tribute to the popular Bruneian footballer.
Faiq has already captured the hearts of the Thai people since committing his professional football future in the country, with many describing him as possessing a friendly demeanor.
This was evident as a Bruneian flag was visibly seen among the stands symbolising the strong support during the match against Chiangrai United.
The national forward has made a decent start to his senior professional career in Thailand after registering two assists in six appearances in the Hilux Revo Thai League 1.
Faiq, who previously spent a season at Portuguese club Maritimo FC, came close to scoring his first goal for the Sharks after hitting the post against Chiangrai United.
His side also boasted interest in the Thai League Cup following their progress to the quarterfinals helped by a 3-1 victory over Muang Loei United in the previous round last week.
Faiq, who made his second start for the club during the defeat to BEC Tero Sasana, will meet Suphanburi in the league on Sunday at the Suphan Buri Provincial Stadium.
