It was a scene straight out of a modern-day fairytale. At the Chonburi arena in Thailand, on the afternoon of December 18, the crowd erupted in joy as three sisters from Hue - Nguyen Thi My Hanh, Nguyen Thi My Trang, and Nguyen Thi My Linh - each clinched gold medals in women’s freestyle wrestling, delivering a moment of immense pride for Vietnam.

For the first time in Vietnam’s sporting history, three siblings stood atop the podium together at a single SEA Games - a rare and deeply emotional feat.

My Hanh, the eldest, reaffirmed her dominance in the 62kg category by winning her fourth consecutive SEA Games gold. Her poise, tactical intelligence, and experience allowed her to overcome every opponent with calm authority.

Right after, My Trang was just as convincing, storming through the 57kg category to secure her third straight SEA Games title - capped by a commanding win over a Thai hometown favorite.

But the most remarkable chapter belonged to the youngest sister, My Linh. In her very first SEA Games appearance, she stunned the crowd by defeating a series of top opponents, including the reigning SEA Games 32 champion, to claim gold in the 53kg division.

Born in a large family in Quang Dien, Hue, the three girls grew up side by side on wrestling mats, sharing a simple dream: to bring honor to the homeland. After their triumphs, they tearfully dedicated the victory to their father, who is currently battling illness: “This gold is for Dad - who’s always been watching over us and fighting his own fight.”

These gold medals represent more than just sporting achievements. The story of My Hanh, My Trang, and My Linh has become a powerful symbol of determination, family strength, and the indomitable spirit of Vietnamese athletes at SEA Games 33.

Thien Binh