Vinh Hien apologizes, Ly Hoang Nam forgives, ending the Asian pickleball drama

Tennis player Ly Hoang Nam has accepted an apology from Truong Vinh Hien after the controversial men's singles semi-final match between two Vietnamese athletes at the PPA Asia - Vietnam Cup 2025.

Two pickleball players "make up" after dramatic match - Photo: PPA

Late on October 4, after the Asian pickleball event ended, Truong Vinh Hien and Ly Hoang Nam made peace with each other through sharing on social networks.

Truong Vinh Hien wrote: "A memorable match, a lesson at the age of 20. First, I want to apologize to all the audience and those involved for having a controversial match.

I had no intention or words to provoke, insult or disrespect anyone. If my eyes or actions at that time caused any misunderstanding, it was my own fault.

I hope the audience will happily give me a chance to improve myself. Thank you, Mr. Nam, for giving me an unforgettable match. Thank you, the audience, for watching and accompanying me.

I will try my best to develop myself every day and compete to contribute to Vietnamese pickleball. Once again, thank you and apologize for my attitude and see you all again."

Meanwhile, Ly Hoang Nam also responded: "What Nam appreciates and shares is that Hien proactively texted and admitted his mistakes. He did not try to blame anyone. That is something not everyone has the courage to do.

Nam hopes the audience will have a more tolerant view and let Nam and Hien continue to improve themselves and contribute to the common development."

At PPA Asia - Vietnam Cup 2025, Ly Hoang Nam won the bronze medal after his opponent withdrew. Truong Vinh Hien lost 0-2 to Phuc Huynh in the men's singles final.

"Drama match" between Truong Vinh Hien and Ly Hoang Nam :

In the men's singles semi-final on October 3, Hoang Nam and Vinh Hien tied 1-1 after 2 games. In game 3, Vinh Hien "called out" 2 situations at crucial moments. Hoang Nam disagreed and complained to the referee, but according to the rules, athletes can catch the ball in and out themselves.

Hoang Nam commented on his junior's way of catching the "out" ball. Due to frustration and psychological impact, Hoang Nam lost the deciding game with a score of 6-11. After that, the two "exchanged words on the field", stemming from Vinh Hien's eyes and attitude when passing by Hoang Nam.

In the tunnel, both sides continued to argue loudly. Public opinion sided with Hoang Nam, Vinh Hien was heavily criticized before the final match. He lost quickly to Phuc Huynh 0-2 and was awarded the runner-up position.

QUANG THINH

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/vinh-hien-xin-loi-ly-hoang-nam-tha-thu-khep-lai-drama-pickleball-chau-a-20251005124440438.htm