Vietnamese girls celebrate their stunning victory over hosts Thailand on July 27. (Photo: TTVN)
Held at the Hat Yai Indoor Stadium in Songkhla province, the match showcased Vietnam’s resilience and rising dominance in a sport long ruled by the hosts. Prior to this final, the Vietnamese team had suffered back-to-back defeats in the finals of the women's regu (three-player) and men's quadrant regu.
Facing formidable Thai opponents that had previously beaten them in the team event just a day earlier, the Vietnamese women coached by Tran Thi Vui turned the tables in spectacular fashion.
Thailand controlled the first set, maintaining a safe lead to win 15-12. However, Vietnam responded strongly in the second set, surging ahead with aggressive play and finishing with a commanding 15-8 victory.
Thailand started strong in the final set, leading 5-2. However, Vietnam’s resilience and unwavering spirit saw them score six consecutive points to surge ahead 8-5. Despite tactical adjustments by Thai head coach Poonsak, the hosts couldn’t contain the Vietnamese momentum.
At match point, a service error by Thailand’s Wiphada Chitphuan sealed the outcome, sparking jubilant celebrations as Vietnam triumphed 15-7 in the final set.
Sepak Takraw has long been a sport dominated by Thailand, especially in world championship events, which are traditionally held in conjunction with the Thai King’s Cup. However, Vietnam has gradually disrupted that dominance in recent years, particularly in the women’s quadrant regu, winning world titles in 2022, 2023, and now 2025.
Overall, Vietnam concluded the tournament with 1 gold, 2 silver, and 2 bronze medals.
Sepak takraw is also a medal sport at the Asian Games, with six medal events contested at each edition.
