Vietnamese shooters Le Thi Mong Tuyen, 22, and Nguyen Tam Quang, 20, secured Vietnam's first gold medal in the 10m air rifle mixed doubles event at SEA Games 33. The duo clinched a dramatic 16-14 victory over Thai opponents Napis Tortungpanich and Chanittha Sastwej in the final, despite facing a deficit at one point and competing without home advantage.

Le Thi Mong Tuyen (left) and Nguyen Tam Quang after the 10m air rifle mixed doubles shooting final in Bangkok, Thailand on the afternoon of 12/12. *Photo: Hieu Luong*

"Standing in the competition room, I was really nervous," Mong Tuyen told VnExpress. "But when I heard everyone outside cheering enthusiastically, especially hearing 'Vietnam, Vietnam,' I felt even more determined. We were both under pressure when our opponents took the lead, but we were determined to fight for national pride."

Hailing from Ho Chi Minh City (TP HCM), Mong Tuyen began shooting in middle school. In 2019, at 16, she committed to professional shooting, having to convince her parents to pursue her passion. Mong Tuyen mentioned she also enjoyed sports like athletics or tug-of-war, but health reasons prevented her from pursuing them. Shooting thus became a suitable choice for her.

Mong Tuyen and Tam Quang receive their gold medals. *Photo: Hieu Luong*

Today's victory marked the first SEA Games medal for both Mong Tuyen and Tam Quang, yet it was the highest honor. When asked about their success, the 22-year-old female shooter stated she had gained more experience compared to SEA Games 31 in Vietnam three years ago. At that time, she had only one year of experience with the national team, which led to more psychological pressure during competition. The 20-year-old male shooter, meanwhile, told himself, "I have to do it," before firing the decisive shot.

Mong Tuyen previously secured a spot at the Paris 2024 Olympics in the 10m air rifle women's event. She is also set to compete in three additional events at SEA Games 33, including: 10m air rifle women's, 50m air rifle, and 50m rifle 3 positions. Tam Quang concludes the Games with one gold medal from an event he participated in.

Xuan Binh