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The top five contestants at Manhunt International 2026. Vietnam’s Tran Tien Dung (first from left, finished fourth runner-up.

The Manhunt International 2026 final took place in Sri Lanka on the evening of Sept. 9, local time, bringing together 36 contestants from around the world. They competed in group presentation and introduction rounds, as well as haute couture, swimwear and formalwear segments.

France’s Dylan Palmerini was crowned the winner, while the representatives of India, Puerto Rico and Nigeria finished first, second and third runners-up, respectively. Tran Tien Dung, representing Vietnam, was named fourth runner-up.

Born in 1997 in Phu Tho province in northern Vietnam, Dung stands 1.86 meters tall and weighs 79 kilograms, with measurements of 109-85-103 centimeters.

The model graduated in Business Administration from Hanoi University of Science and Technology and previously worked as marketing director for a fitness center chain before pursuing a modeling career.

During the week-long competition, Dung traveled with around 90 kilograms of luggage. He maintained an elegant, confident image throughout the event, focusing on everything from fashion and physical fitness to communication skills and presenting Vietnamese culture and people to an international audience.

In addition to finishing fourth runner-up, the Vietnamese contestant received the Best Asian Model award.

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Tran Tien Dung said he was proud of his result at Manhunt International 2026, although he regretted missing out on the top title.

Speaking to VietNamNet, Dung said he felt happy, proud and emotional that his journey at Manhunt International 2026 had been recognized with the titles. While the competition brought considerable pressure, it also gave him many memorable experiences.

His biggest regret, he said, was not being able to bring the top title home to Vietnam. Still, he does not regard the result as a failure.

“I came to Manhunt International 2026 aiming for the highest title because I knew I had prepared seriously and put a great deal of effort into this journey,” he said. “For me, finishing as a runner-up is a lesson that shows I can still become better, more complete and stronger.”

After returning to Vietnam, Dung plans to take part in media activities and meet with audiences. He will continue working as a model while seeking opportunities to develop a career in film.

First held in 1993, Manhunt International is one of the major international male pageants, alongside Mr World and Mr International.

Vietnam has sent several representatives to the competition over the years, including Ngo Tien Doan and Truong Nam Thanh. The country’s best result came when Ngoc Tinh won Manhunt International 2017 in Thailand. Model and actor Binh Minh was the first Vietnamese contestant to compete in the pageant.

During this year’s event, organizers also announced that Vietnam will host Manhunt International 2027.

Tuan Chieu