Badminton

Nguyễn Thùy Linh seen in action at the Paris Olympics in July. Linh targets a place in the world top 20 this year. VNS Photo Hoàng Linh

Thanh Hà

Nguyễn Thùy Linh has defended her title at the recent Việt Nam Open, securing her position at No 25 in the latest Badminton World Federation rankings. She is edging closer to her target of breaking into the top 20 this year, with a long-term goal of reaching the top 15.

At the Nguyễn Du Gymnasium in HCM City, Linh defeated Japan's Kaoru Sugiyama 21-15, 22-20 to claim her third consecutive Việt Nam Open title, just one shy of the four-time record set by national legend Nguyễn Tiến Minh.

"Sometimes I don’t feel my best and the pressure is intense," Linh said. "Being an athlete is far from easy. But with the strong support from the fans, I managed to secure this victory. I’m incredibly grateful for everyone's encouragement."

Linh remains a key figure for the Việt Nam Badminton Federation, which is preparing a strategic plan to elevate the national badminton scene and support Linh’s pursuit of international success.

National domination

Linh has dominated Việt Nam’s women's badminton since 2018, claiming seven national championship titles, along with multiple local tournament wins.

On the international stage, her career highlights include gold medals from three BWF World Tour events—the Việt Nam Open titles in 2022, 2023, and 2024—and a silver medal from the 2024 German Open. Her consistent performances earned her spots in both the Tokyo 2021 and Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Nguyễn Thùy Linh has dominated the domestic competitions for seven years. — VNS Photo Hoàng Linh

"Before 2018, my main goal was to be Việt Nam's No 1 player," Linh said. "But once I reached that, I had to push even harder to maintain my position. My international experience has helped me overcome challenges and manage the pressure that comes with competing against top opponents."

Linh acknowledges the difficulties in her career but also cherishes the unique experiences badminton has brought her. Meeting Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính before the Tokyo Olympics was one such moment, which provided a significant boost to her confidence.

Her debut at the Tokyo Olympics, held during the COVID-19 pandemic, was another major milestone.

"Playing my idol, Tai Tzu Ying from Chinese Taipei, was a highlight. Even though I didn’t win, I learned a lot about my own limits and what I need to improve," she said.

Nguyễn Thùy Linh (left) shakes hands with Japanese player Kaoru Sugiyama during the Vietnam Open final match on September 25. — VNS Photo Quốc An

Future ambitions

Though Linh has faced challenges, such as competing through exhaustion and injuries—particularly during her 2022 Việt Nam Open victory—she remains focused on the future.

"I had to play through fatigue while continuously working to qualify for the Paris Olympics. The pain was tough, but knowing my supporters believed in me kept me going," she said.

Nguyễn Thùy Linh hugs her coach after winning the Vietnam Open for the third time. — VNS Photo Quốc An

Linh’s ultimate goal is to break into the world's top 20, with hopes of reaching the top 15. "Badminton is still my priority," Linh said. "My journey continues, and I’ll need to participate in many more tournaments to see just how far I can go."

Looking ahead to the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand, where Việt Nam’s best result to date is a bronze medal, Linh is among the athletes expected to lead the nation to a gold medal.

"We believe that with strong investment and her best efforts, Linh can achieve this," said Khoa Trung Kiên of the Sports Authority of Việt Nam’s Badminton Department.

Nguyễn Thùy Linh on top podium of the Vietnam Open on September 25. — VNS Photo Quốc An

“We will give the best conditions for players, including Linh, to compete in international tournaments to improve their expertise and accumulate points to change rankings in the top group in the world.

"We are providing our athletes, including Linh, with the best possible conditions to compete internationally, improving their skills and world rankings. The 2024 SEA Games will be a critical goal, and Linh is our biggest hope for success." VNS