In an emotional gesture, naturalized striker Nguyen Xuan Son received his ASEAN Cup 2024 gold medal directly from coach Kim Sang Sik, while his teammates handed him the championship trophy, recognizing his outstanding contributions as the tournament’s most valuable player and top scorer.

Despite Vietnam's historic victory against Thailand to claim the ASEAN Cup 2024 title, Xuan Son was unable to attend the award ceremony due to a severe injury sustained during the match.

Medical examinations in Bangkok confirmed that the striker had suffered fractures to his fibula and tibia in his right leg, sidelining him for an extended recovery period.

Before departing for Hanoi, coach Kim Sang Sik personally met Xuan Son at the airport to offer support and encouragement. The Korean coach placed the gold medal around Son's neck, acknowledging his vital role in the team's success.

In a touching gesture, captain Duy Manh and the rest of the team presented the championship trophy to Xuan Son at Suvarnabhumi Airport. Overcome with emotion, the 27-year-old striker shed tears as he felt the love and solidarity of his teammates and fans.

Xuan Son, holding the championship trophy, wiped away his tears and posed for photos with fans at the Bangkok airport before boarding the flight to Hanoi, where a hero’s welcome awaited the victorious team.