For Vietnamese volleyball sensation Thi Thanh Thuy Tran, there’s something about the Philippines that always brings out her best.
On a thrilling Saturday night at the Philsports Arena, the 27-year-old star affectionately known as "T4" once again captured the spotlight, steering VTV Binh Dien Long An to the finals of the 2025 AVC Women’s Champions League. Displaying her signature power and poise, Thuy led the Vietnamese club past heavily favored Beijing Baic Motor in a stunning straight-sets sweep, 25-15, 25-19, 25-21.
It’s a familiar script for Thuy — and one she embraces wholeheartedly.
“I feel like the Philippines is a lucky charm for me and for our team,” Thuy shared with a bright smile. “I love playing here — I love the energy of the crowd, and I’m just really happy to be back and playing again. It feels like a very lucky place for me.”
This isn’t the first time Thuy has found gold within reach on Philippine soil. Less than a year ago, she helped the Vietnam national team capture the 2024 AVC Challenge Cup title with a rousing win against Kazakhstan at the historic Rizal Memorial Coliseum. Now, with another finals appearance looming, Thuy is hoping lightning strikes twice.
The Philippines seems to have a magnetic pull on Thuy. Aside from her recent runs, she also competed in the 2024 FIVB Challenger Cup last July, where she helped Vietnam dismantle home team Alas Pilipinas in the quarterfinals before bowing out to eventual champions Czech Republic in the semifinals.
Her growing bond with Filipino fans has only deepened each visit.
Having once teamed up with Creamline superstar Alyssa Valdez at Attack Line VC in Chinese-Taipei, Thuy’s dynamic style and infectious energy have made her a crowd favorite every time she steps onto a Philippine court. Her thunderous spikes, fiery celebrations, and warm connection with the audience have built an undeniable bridge between her and the local volleyball community.
“Every time I hear the crowd cheering during the match, it gives me and the team such a big boost,” she said. “It’s an amazing feeling, knowing that the fans are behind us and want us to win and do well. It really lifts us.”
As she and VTV Binh Dien Long An prepare for their championship clash against Kazakhstan’s Zhetysu VC, Thuy hopes the magic — and the cheers — continue to flow.
