The International Volleyball Federation praises Vietnam, regrets Bich Tuyen's absence

The International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) has praised the recent form of the Vietnam women's volleyball team while also noting that Bich Tuyen will not be able to compete in the 2025 World Championship.

The Vietnam women's volleyball team is about to embark on a historic journey at the 2025 Women's Volleyball World Championship. This marks the first time Vietnam has appeared on the biggest stage in the world, and Coach Nguyen Tuan Kiet's squad has been recognized by the International Volleyball Federation for their remarkable achievements.

"Vietnam earned their spot in the tournament thanks to a 4th place finish at the 2023 Asian Championship. On the world volleyball rankings, Vietnam currently holds the 22nd position, just above Kenya.

Earlier this year (2025), the Vietnam women's volleyball team won the AVC Nations Cup for the third consecutive time. Less than two weeks ago, the team made history by securing the gold medal at a tournament within the Southeast Asian Women's Volleyball League (SEA V League).", the specialized website Volleyball Worldof FIVB reported.

FIVB also emphasized that this year has been one of the brightest seasons for Vietnamese women's volleyball. The team clinched the AVC Nations Cup title for the third straight time. Moreover, just days before the World Championship, Vietnam reached a significant milestone by winning the SEA V.League gold medal against their longtime rival Thailand. These accomplishments are considered a morale boost, giving the Vietnamese team confidence as they head to the global stage.

However, unfortunately, we will not have the strongest squad at this year's tournament. Outside hitter Nguyen Thi Bich Tuyen, who performed outstandingly at the AVC Nations Cup and SEA V.League, will not be joining the team this time. This is regarded as a major loss since Bich Tuyen is a key point scorer who often creates breakthroughs during critical moments.

Nevertheless, Coach Nguyen Tuan Kiet still has many high-caliber players capable of bearing the responsibility. Among them, Tran Thi Thanh Thuy is considered the main pillar with extensive international experience.

Additionally, there is Vi Thi Nhu Quynh, a young player who shone brightly in the past season, along with middle blocker Tran Thi Bich Thuy and libero Nguyen Khanh Dang, both highly regarded for their defensive skills and playmaking abilities.

"The best player of both the Nations Cup and SEA V.League, outside hitter Nguyen Thi Bich Tuyen, will not travel to Phuket with the Vietnamese team. However, the squad still includes Dream Team members such as opposite hitter Tran Thi Thanh Thuy and Vi Thi Nhu Quynh, middle blocker Tran Thi Bich Thuy, and libero Nguyen Khanh Dang.", Volleyball World commented.

Vietnam is placed in Group G alongside Poland, Germany, and Kenya. Volleyball World ranks Poland as a contender for the 2025 World Volleyball Championship title; Poland was runner-up in the inaugural 1952 tournament and has secured third place several times in 1956 and 1962. In the last three VNL seasons, the "White Eagles" have consistently finished in third place overall.

Furthermore, Germany (ranked 11th globally) is also a formidable opponent with 17 appearances at the World Championship. The opportunity for Thanh Thuy and her teammates comes when facing Kenya, who are ranked just behind Vietnam at 23rd in the world rankings.

According to the schedule, Coach Nguyen Tuan Kiet's team will kick off against Poland on the evening of August 23 at 8:30 PM.