In recent days, Hong has been frequently seen livestreaming on her personal page, selling fitness gear and sports-related products. Her livestreams have garnered support from many followers, with some sessions lasting until 2–3 a.m. Her personal page now boasts over 13,000 followers.

This marks a new chapter for the young Thai Nguyen-born athlete, who was recently disqualified from the 2025 U21 World Volleyball Championship for “failing to meet eligibility requirements.” After returning to Vietnam, she received a further penalty: an indefinite ban from all domestic competitions by the Vietnam Volleyball Federation (VFV).

The VFV stated that all domestic tournaments are registered under the official competition system of the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB). Therefore, any athlete deemed ineligible by FIVB cannot participate until further notice.

Facing slim chances of returning to the court, Hong has thrown herself into livestream sales as a means of survival. Her transformation - from a core player of the U21 national team and a rising star with future prospects on the senior national squad, to someone selling goods online late at night - has left many sympathizing with her plight.

Sources reveal that Hong comes from a financially disadvantaged background. Her dream of using sports to lift her family out of poverty was cut short just as her talent began to emerge. Many still question the transparency and reasoning behind the disciplinary decisions that ended her competitive career so abruptly.

For now, the Thai Nguyen sports department continues to support her to some extent. In the long term, she is expected to pursue higher education at Bac Ninh University of Sports and Physical Education, with hopes of transitioning into a coaching career.

According to VFV General Secretary Le Tri Truong, some organizations have expressed willingness to sponsor her studies. The federation has also committed to helping Hong find future employment opportunities related to volleyball.

Dai Nam