Vietnamese Chess Player Quits National Team Over Sport's Issues

Vietnamese chess star Nguyễn Ngọc Trường Sơn has announced a significant decision to cease competing in standard chess for the national team, citing deep-seated issues within the sport. The announcement, made via a Facebook post exceeding 1,300 words, has sent ripples through the Vietnamese chess community.

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As someone who has been in chess for over 30 years, I feel a responsibility to speak out about long-standing inadequacies.

Sơn, known for his reserved demeanor, explained that his decision stems from a need to clarify his absence from the upcoming Olympiad and to preempt future complications. "As someone who has been in chess for over 30 years, I feel a responsibility to speak out about long-standing inadequacies," Sơn stated. He hopes for a more equitable competitive environment and improved development conditions for players.

His lengthy post detailed his frustrations, which he says have worsened over the past decade. The idea to stop competing in standard formats began in early 2024. "The problems in Sơn's post have existed for many years, but over the last 10 years, things have gradually worsened," he noted. This decision is purely professional, he emphasized, and will not change regardless of potential future reforms.

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The problems in Sơn's post have existed for many years, but over the last 10 years, things have gradually worsened.

The announcement has drawn widespread attention, with fellow top player Lê Quang Liêm sharing Sơn's post and offering support. Sơn's wife, chess player Phạm Lê Thảo Nguyên, also participated in an interview with Tuổi Trẻ to provide further context. While Sơn informed the coaching staff for the 2025 SEA Games, it remains unclear if higher leadership has been briefed on his decision.

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This decision is purely professional.