Vietnam's Pencak Silat team showcased impressive prowess during the 2024 Pencak Silat World Championship, held from December 15 to 23, 2024, at Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The event saw Vietnam excel remarkably, clinching 18 gold medals, 5 silver medals, and 5 bronze medals across various categories.
The standout moments came from athletes like Nguyễn Thị Thu Hiền, who not only won gold but also displayed remarkable skill and determination, triumphing in the women's 75 kg category. This victory not only brought pride to Hiền but also to the Hưng Yên Pencak Silat training center, reinforcing Vietnam’s strong position globally.
Another significant contributor to Vietnam's success was Nguyễn Quang Thành from Quảng Ninh, who excelled at the junior championships with his gold medal win, demonstrating the depth of talent present within the national team. The athletes from Quảng Ninh collectively achieved commendable results, including additional gold and silver medals.
Team Vietnam's extensive participation featured over 1,200 athletes and coaches from 55 countries, creating fierce competition across various age groups, from 12 to 46 years. The event comprised several categories such as fighting, performance, and forms, with Vietnamese athletes making their mark throughout.
Notably, the women's team also displayed stellar performance, with champions like Trần Thị Kim Loan, who dominated the 45 kg category; Lê Thị Vân Anh; and Quàng Thị Thu Nghĩa, who secured her fourth world championship title, demonstrating the strength and skill of Vietnam’s female athletes.
Reflecting on their victories, coaches expressed pride not just for the medals won but also for the athletes' mental resilience and readiness to tackle international competitors. The coaching staff highlighted how the athletes' self-confidence and serious preparation played pivotal roles in their success.
The results from Abu Dhabi serve as motivation and groundwork for Vietnam’s team as they gear up for the upcoming SEA Games scheduled to be held in Thailand in 2025. The coaching team is already laying plans to fine-tune their strategies based on the experiences gained from this prestigious competition.
Such success at the World Championship is not merely about winning medals; it’s about establishing Vietnamese Pencak Silat on the map of international Martial Arts sports. The sport, which combines physical agility, mental fortitude, and cultural significance, continues to thrive under the attention it has gained through these competitions.
While the athletes celebrate their accomplishments, the leadership of Pencak Silat Vietnam is focused on the future, working diligently to maintain and improve their standard of training. They aim to identify and nurture fresh talent who can carry forward the legacy of Vietnam’s Pencak Silat tradition.
Many athletes and officials agree this championship has solidified Vietnam’s reputation as a powerhouse in the sport. The accolades received are not just personal achievements but communal pride, highlighting the rigorous training and dedication of everyone involved.
Now, as the Papua New Guinea hosts the next World Championship, Vietnam stands ready to defend and extend its legacy, eager to continue its trend of success, fight for more medals, and significantly impact the international stage.