Khanh Thi, Phan Hien, and Dang Thu Huong were overcome with emotion upon returning to Vietnam after earning a bronze medal in the Latin Showdance category at the WDSF World Championships in the United States.

The trio had just concluded an extended trip across Europe and the U.S., and were greeted by their students at the airport with a heartfelt celebration of their international success.

Phan Hien and his dance partner, Dang Thu Huong, made history by clinching the bronze medal in the Latin Showdance category at the World DanceSport Federation (WDSF) World Championship held in the U.S. This marked their debut in this discipline at an international level.

Witnessing their achievement, Khanh Thi, who also serves as their coach, couldn’t hold back her tears of joy.

On her personal page, athlete Dang Thu Huong shared, “We were overwhelmed with joy and tears as we brought home this glorious victory. The entire journey was filled with unimaginable effort - exhaustion, injuries, and pressure - but it was all worth it.”

Khanh Thi also expressed her emotions: “I’m so happy to be welcomed with so much love. I don’t know why, but I always end up crying.” Phan Hien admitted he was stunned and deeply moved by the reception he received upon his return.

The medal came at a significant cost in terms of both time and finances. Throughout the past year of preparation, Phan Hien regularly invited his French coach to Vietnam or flew to France for training. A week before the competition, the trio flew to France to train intensively before heading to the U.S. for the event.

Expenses for the competition soared beyond expectations due to the high cost of living in the U.S., including last-minute flight changes and unexpected costs. In her role as coach, Khanh Thi not only provided emotional support but also took charge of meal preparation and daily logistics to cut costs. She even shopped for groceries and cooked meals to save money.

As a national dance sport champion, Khanh Thi currently serves as the Director of the Institute of Culture and Arts at the University of Economics and Finance in Ho Chi Minh City (UEF), a position she has held since 2023. She remains actively involved in training and serves as an international judge at dance sport competitions.

In 2025, she organized the Vietnam Dancesport Festival with a budget of approximately $330,000, attracting thousands of athletes from multiple countries. She also serves as Vice President of the Electronic Sports and Recreation Association, contributing to the development of this sector in Vietnam.

Despite her demanding schedule, Khanh Thi continues to maintain a balanced life with her husband, Phan Hien, and their three young children. She frequently shares her journey of inspiring young people through her passion for the arts.

Huy Minh