In a thrilling display of skill and determination, Vietnam’s women’s sepak takraw team has etched their names into sporting history by clinching their first-ever World Cup title in the women’s quadrant category. The victory, secured on 21 March in Bihar, India, saw Vietnam dethrone long-time rivals Thailand, a team widely regarded as the powerhouse of the sport, in a dramatic final that captivated fans worldwide.
The win at the ISTAF Sepak Takraw World Cup 2025 marks a significant milestone for Vietnam, a nation that has steadily risen in the ranks of this fast-paced, acrobatic sport often dubbed “kick volleyball.” Facing Thailand, the birthplace of sepak takraw and a dominant force on the international stage for decades, Vietnam’s triumph signals a shift in the sport’s traditional hierarchy.
A Nail-Biting Final
The final match at Patliputra Indoor Stadium was a clash of titans. Vietnam, entering as defending world champions after their 2023 triumph, fielded a formidable lineup with Trần Thị Ngọc Yến, Nguyễn Thị My, Nguyễn Thị Ngọc Huyền, and Nguyễn Thị Yến. From the outset, the team showcased exceptional coordination, surging to a 5-0 lead in the first set before extending their advantage to 8-1. Despite a late comeback attempt by Thailand, Vietnam sealed the set 15-12. 
Thailand fought back in the second set, adapting their tactics to take an early 5-1 lead and ultimately winning 15-12. The deciding third set was a rollercoaster of emotions, with the scoreline seesawing as both teams traded points. At 14-13 in Vietnam’s favour, the team delivered the championship point with a breathtaking play, securing a 15-13 victory that sent the stadium into a frenzy.
A Journey of Dominance
Vietnam’s path to the final was equally impressive. The team dispatched South Korea 2-0, Myanmar 2-1, and France 2-0 in earlier rounds, demonstrating their depth and consistency. This historic win builds on their growing reputation, following years of hard work and investment in the sport at both grassroots and professional levels.
On the men’s side, Vietnam’s team also reached the final but fell short against Thailand, losing 1-15 and 9-15 to settle for a commendable silver medal. The results highlight the fierce rivalry between the two nations, a dynamic that continues to fuel some of the most exciting matches in sepak takraw.
The Sport and Its Global Stage
Sepak takraw, a sport rooted in South East Asian culture, combines elements of volleyball and football, requiring players to strike a rattan or plastic ball over a net using only their feet, knees, chest, or head. Hands are strictly off-limits, making it a test of agility, precision, and athleticism. The ISTAF Sepak Takraw World Cup 2025, held from 20-25 March, brought together 20 countries and around 300 athletes and trainers for a six-day celebration of the sport. Competitors also vie for titles in categories such as men’s and women’s regu (teams of three), doubles, and mixed team events.
For global audiences less familiar with sepak takraw, Vietnam’s victory offers a glimpse into a sport that blends cultural heritage with modern athletic prowess. Its growing popularity beyond South East Asia is evident in the diverse lineup of participating nations, including teams from Europe and beyond.
A Moment of National Pride
Back in Hanoi, the win has sparked widespread celebration. Social media platforms are abuzz with messages of congratulations, with many Vietnamese fans hailing the women’s team as national heroes. The victory is seen not only as a sporting achievement but as a symbol of resilience and determination, qualities often associated with the nation’s spirit.
For the athletes themselves, the triumph is the culmination of years of dedication. Their success is likely to inspire a new generation of players, particularly young women, to take up the sport and dream of international glory. As Vietnam basks in this historic moment, the spotlight now turns to how this victory might shape the future of sepak takraw, both at home and on the world stage.
