In October, Vinh Hien and Hoang Nam had a dispute during the PPA Tour Asia – Da Nang leg semifinal. Today's PPA Tour Australia final in Melbourne marked the first time the two top Vietnamese players faced each other again in an official tournament, setting the stage for a highly anticipated rematch.
Gone were the arguments or tense atmosphere; instead, the match featured spectacular plays and dramatic rallies, captivating the audience.
 |
Truong Vinh Hien with the Pro Men’s Singles PPA Tour Australia 2025 championship cup in Melbourne on the morning of 16/11. |
In the first set, Vinh Hien took a more proactive approach with smart shots from the baseline. Hoang Nam, conversely, opted for a net-covering style but made many errors, falling behind 2-5. Nam's subsequent efforts narrowed the gap to 4-5. However, when faced with a chance to equalize, the player from Tay Ninh made an unforced error, allowing Hien to score five consecutive points. Nam rallied again, hitting difficult shots into both corners to score four points, reducing the score to 9-10. Despite Nam's efforts, Hien promptly broke Nam's scoring streak, then capitalized on his serve to hit a winner, securing the set 11-9.
The second set began with a moment of notable sportsmanship. After leading by one point, Hien hit a down-the-line shot that appeared to be out, but the umpire had not yet signaled. Immediately, Nam pointed to indicate the ball was out, and Hien did not dispute it. This cool and calm demeanor helped Hien play better, as he consistently hit difficult shots, challenging Nam.
Hien built a commanding 10-1 lead, making the match seem all but decided. However, after Nam scored two points, heavy rain caused the match to be suspended for nearly three hours.
Upon resumption, Nam served but could not capitalize. Hien, conversely, seized the opportunity, ending the match with a down-the-line shot at the baseline to secure an 11-3 victory.
"This is the day I have longed for and awaited," Hien shared. "Despite a difficult match, I am very happy with the victory here."
Vinh Hien, 21, was originally a tennis player who represented Vietnam in the Davis Cup qualifiers. He later transitioned to pickleball and consistently achieved success. At the first Asian Pickleball Championship held in Vietnam in 4/2024, he simultaneously won a gold medal in mixed doubles, a silver medal in men's doubles, and a bronze medal in singles.
The Melbourne Pickleball Cup 2025, part of the PPA Tour system—the world's premier pickleball circuit—took place from 13 to 16/11/2025 in Melbourne, Australia, attracting many strong players from the Asia-Pacific region.
Duc Dong
