HÀ NỘI — Untold stories about the life and career of Việt Nam’s top female swimmer, Nguyễn Thị Ánh Viên, are revealed to public in her autobiography which has recently been released.

Ánh Viên: From Zero to Hero consists of eight chapters, which symbolises the number of gold medals that Viên won in the Southeast Asian Games (SEA) Games 2015 and SEA Games 2017. It was transcribed by writers Đặng Hoàng and Đình Hiệp, and was published by Saigon Books and Lao Động (Labour) Publishing House.

The book features the 22-year-old’s journey from the first swimming lessons in canals next to her house with her childhood friends at the age of three, till glorious moments being awarded with gold medals.

Stories about decisive moments, her daily life and answers to how she competes also await readers of Ánh Viên: From Zero to Hero.

Viên’s debut autobiography, however, is not only about herself but also other people who have helped Viên - one of the six best female swimmers in the history of SEA Games – to achieve glory.

The book also details swimming, which is considered as the loneliest but also one of the most demanding sports in the world.

According to writer Đặng Hoàng, speaking at the launch of Ánh Viên: From Zero to Hero in HCM City on Sunday, the book is a wonderful story about strong will, training discipline and aspiration.

“The journey from zero to hero must be a tough one but full of inspiration. This might be a fascinating sport story, but above all, it would inspire other athletes as well,” he said.

Viên said the book launch creates an opportunity for her to meet with sport enthusiasts to share her story. Such achievements have been earned with tears and sweat during strenuous mental and physical training which, however, is full of happiness, excitement and glory.

She added that she owes much to the many people who have given her affection and supported her in every tournament, particularly coach Đặng Anh Tuấn and her family.

Also at the book launch, Viên and coach Tuấn informed about their preparations for the upcoming Asian Games 2018 in which she will compete in two events – 200m medley and 400m medley. Viên won two bronze medals four years ago at the last edition of the event in Korea. — VNS