Hanoi, 20 August, 2025 – On August 20, the Vietnam women’s volleyball team traveled to Thailand to take part in the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship (August 22 – September 7) without their star opposite hitter Nguyen Thi Bich Tuyen, who shocked fans by announcing her withdrawal just one day before departure.
Head coach Nguyen Tuan Kiet admitted he was stunned by the news. “I was shocked when I received Bich Tuyen’s request. She has her own reasons, and we respect her decision,” he said. The Vietnam Volleyball Federation (VFV) also issued a statement, affirming: “We respect the athlete’s choice and emphasize that Bich Tuyen remains an important member of the national team. We will always welcome her return in the future.”
On her personal page, Bich Tuyen shared an emotional message explaining her decision. “This is not because I lack ambition, but because of new FIVB requirements regarding athletes’ conditions. Sport is not only about competition, but also about respect and fairness. I feel these regulations lack transparency and equality for players. To protect my integrity and avoid unnecessary risks for the team, I decided to step aside. I will spend this time training and preparing for future tournaments. I believe with strong preparation, the Vietnamese team will still compete with pride and achieve success. I hope everyone continues to support my teammates at the upcoming World Championship.”
The absence of Vietnam’s top scorer is a major setback both technically and mentally. Coach Nguyen Tuan Kiet admitted: “Of course, this affects the team. But from the beginning, I have built our system around collective strength and multiple options. We will stay united, motivated, and determined to fulfill our goals.”
Because her withdrawal came so close to departure, the team could not call up a replacement and will compete with 13 players. Key names include captain Tran Thi Thanh Thuy, Tran Thi Bich Thuy, Nguyen Thi Trinh, Doan Thi Lam Oanh, Nguyen Thi Uyen, and libero Nguyen Khanh Dang. Notably, Hoang Thi Kieu Trinh is now the only natural opposite hitter in the squad. To adapt, coach Tuan Kiet already tested different lineups, including a set without Bich Tuyen, in recent friendlies against Spain and Kenya, where Vietnam impressed with a 4-0 win over the latter.
Making their first-ever appearance at the World Championship, Vietnam face a daunting group stage with Poland (world No. 3), Germany (No. 11), and Kenya (No. 23). Despite the challenges, the team remain determined to write a proud new chapter for Vietnamese volleyball on the global stage.
Kim Chi
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