Thuy Linh recounted two instances in the decisive third set where Letshanaa's shots appeared out, yet the referee called them in, awarding points to the Malaysian player. She also noted another rally that felt "50-50" but ultimately went to her opponent.

"I was very frustrated," Thuy Linh said after the match. "If the tournament had a challenge system, I would have used it. I felt the referee was biased towards my opponent. But what can you do? I have nothing to lose, nothing to fear; the important thing is to keep pushing forward."

Thuy Linh competed in the women's team event at SEA Games 33 in Thailand, afternoon of 7/12. Photo: Duc Dong

In her opening match this morning, Thuy Linh lost the first set 15-21 but rallied in the second, winning 21-10. The decisive third set saw both players battle for every early point. Letshanaa then accelerated, and with some favorable calls from the referee, she took a 12-7 lead. Despite her frustration, Thuy Linh steadily regained composure, persistently chasing points to equalize at 18-18.

The Vietnamese number one player then faced two match points but escaped, ultimately winning 23-21. This was Vietnam's only victory in the team event, as Thuy Linh's teammates lost their three subsequent matches, resulting in Vietnam's overall 1-3 defeat.

Following the women's team event, the player from Phu Tho will compete in two more categories: mixed doubles and women's singles. Thuy Linh is expected to contend for a medal in the individual event. However, the 28-year-old noted the difficulty, as the SEA Games features strong players, many ranking in the world's top 10, while she is 22nd.

"The SEA Games has so many strong players, so I am not seeded," Thuy Linh stated. "Therefore, I can only hope for a favorable draw to advance deep into the competition. Regardless, I will always compete for my country's flag and will not give up easily."

Duc Dong