'Messi of Vietnam' expects marriage to boost his performance

By Minh Khang December 25, 2023 | 03:30 am PT

Midfielder Nguyen Quang Hai, known as the "Messi of Vietnam," has said that marrying Chu Thanh Huyen, an online influencer and business owner, will increase his motivation in his career.

Midfielder Nguyen Quang Hai (R) and his fiancée Chu Thanh Huyen during the couple's traditional proposal ceremony on Dec. 20, 2023. Photo by Xuan Huyen

The couple, who celebrated their traditional proposal ceremony on Dec. 20, have been a source of mutual support and understanding, according to Hai.

"I think we have many things in common which can help both of us progress further," the footballer said.

He added that Huyen has been a significant presence in his life, especially during his tenure at Pau FC in France. Moving there in 2022 to be with him, she provided much-needed emotional support, alleviating his loneliness in a foreign country.

"Having her by my side to share about things on the pitch and at the club made me more comfortable," Hai said.

He sees Huyen as a source of positivity and believes their marriage will fuel his motivation and responsibility both on field and off.

The footballer also hinted at "some good news" coming soon and said he hopes to get support and blessings from everyone for them.

Hai, 26, is renowned for his achievements, including the SEA Games 2019 gold medal, the 2018 AFF Cup title, and Vietnam’s historic advance in the 2021 World Cup qualifiers.

He is believed to currently earn VND100 million (US$4,100) monthly from Cong An Ha Noi
FC, following his return from France earlier this year.

Huyen, 23, has established herself as a successful online influencer and businesswoman, boasting over 421,000 TikTok followers.

The couple, dating since 2021, is known for their discretion on social media, as they rarely share photos of each other.

They are planning an engagement ceremony on Jan. 1, 2024, with a wedding scheduled around the Tet Lunar New Year in Feb. 2024.