Tears of SEA Games 33 champion Nguyen Van Khanh Phong: 'Dad, I did it!'

On the afternoon of December 11th, Nguyen Van Khanh Phong brilliantly defended his SEA Games gold medal in the rings event. Amidst this triumph, the young man's eyes welled up with tears as he spoke of his late father.

At the Gymnastics Arena in Thailand on the afternoon of December 11th, all eyes were on the performance of the reigning SEA Games rings champion, Nguyen Van Khanh Phong. With perfect technique and astonishing composure, Khanh Phong impressed the judges, achieving an impressive score of 13.767.

This achievement helped him surpass all rivals to win the prestigious gold medal. This is the second consecutive time Khanh Phong has stood on the highest podium in the regional arena, affirming his number one position after his achievement at the 32nd SEA Games held in Cambodia in 2023.

Khanh Phong's eyes welled up with tears while he was being interviewed.

PHOTO: NT

The moment the results were announced, instead of the radiant smile usually seen on a winner, Khanh Phong couldn't hold back his tears. The eyes of the Southeast Asian rings champion welled up, holding a private sorrow that few could understand.

In an interview, with a choked voice, Khanh Phong shared about the immense void in his heart at this Games: "My father isn't here to cheer me on today. He was always by my side in many previous SEA Games. He passed away in September."

Every year, before and after each competition, Phong could look up at the stands to share his joy with his father. But this year, in Thailand, he could only confide in those interviewing him, hoping that somewhere far away, his father would see and smile proudly. The golden boy of gymnastics' message silenced the interview: "Dad, I want to tell you that I've done it. Everything you said, everything I promised you, I've done."

Khanh Phong shines again: Vietnamese gymnastics wins big in the rings event.

Khanh Phong (center) on the podium receiving his medal.

PHOTO: NT

Deputy Director of the Vietnam Sports Department Nguyen Hong Minh (bottom row, left) presents the medal to Khanh Phong.

PHOTO: NT

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/nuoc-mat-nha-vo-dich-sea-games-33-nguyen-van-khanh-phong-ba-oi-con-da-lam-duoc-roi-185251211175923866.htm