What changed
2026-10-03 07:44 UTC → 2026-10-04 07:22 UTC ·
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Former Following her return to professional swimmer competition, Nguyễn Thị Ánh Viên initially focused on lifestyle changes and endurance sports following has emphasized that her retirement. During this period, she gained social media attention for a new fashion-oriented aesthetic while participating in marathons, triathlons, and open water swimming. She also maintained community involvement comeback is motivated by teaching children a “continued passion for the sport and providing digital swimming instruction. Subsequently, Ánh Viên announced a return desire to professional competition. inspire younger swimmers” rather than a pursuit of medals or a need to prove her competitive standing. Representing the Defense 4 Sports Training Center, she participated in a swimming and diving tournament in Ho Chi Minh City from September 29 to October 2, 2026, acting as a precursor to the 10th National Sports Festival. During this pre-event at the Phú Thọ Swimming and Diving Club, the 30-year-old athlete secured four gold medals during the swimming and diving pre-tournament for the 2026 National Sports Games in Ho Chi Minh City. Her victories occurred in the 100m backstroke, 200m backstroke, 200m freestyle, and 200m individual medley. Her winning times included 2:06.21 in the 200m freestyle and 2:20.85 in the 200m individual medley. While she maintained dominance, experts noted coaches observed that her performance times have decreased compared to are slower than her peak professional years, which is attributed her performance remains dominant within the current field. In addition to her four-year hiatus from professional training. This tournament serves competitive efforts, Ánh Viên has transitioned into coaching and content creation, focusing on teaching swimming and promoting water safety for children. Her return is viewed as preparation a significant moment for Vietnamese swimming, particularly as the National Sports Festival scheduled for November 2026 nation has faced challenges in Ho Chi Minh City. Olympic-style disciplines at major regional events like the Asiad.