The tournament took place from April 5 to 12 in Thailand, drawing 980 fighters from 30 countries and territories.

Hosts Thailand topped the standings with nearly 400 athletes competing. Uzbekistan placed second with a squad similar in size to Vietnam’s and has built a structured, long-term kickboxing program over many years.

Vietnam showed clear progress compared with the previous edition. The team sent 33 fighters last year and won four gold medals. This year, the delegation expanded to 52 athletes, with a sharp rise in total medals, showing the results of stronger preparation and broader development at the local level.

The result is notable as the tournament featured most of the world’s leading fighters, with a high level of competition throughout.

Vu Duc Thinh, President of the Vietnam Kickboxing Federation, said the performance demonstrates careful preparation by local units as well as the athletes’ unity and determination in competition.

He said competing with funding mobilized from social sources and local budgets shows stronger involvement from relevant units, contributing to the sport’s sustainable development.

A highlight of this year’s tournament was Vietnam’s first participation in the forms (quyền) category (a discipline focused on choreographed techniques requiring precision and artistry). On their debut, Vietnamese fighters won two gold medals, claimed by Vương Hien Hao and Trương Tan Loc of Can Tho city.

The result marks an important step, opening a new direction for Vietnam’s kickboxing alongside its traditional combat events.

Vietnamese kickboxers to compete at Asian Kickboxing Championships

Vietnam will send 32 fighters to the Asian Kickboxing Championships, scheduled to be held in Cambodia from October 4 to 10, according to the Vietnam Kickboxing Federation (VKF).