At the 30th SEA Games in December 2019 in the Philippines, Anh Vien did not wear braces as she still had crooked teeth. This was the last SEA Games that Vien attended, where she was named the best woman athlete after winning six gold medals and two silvers.
In early 2020, Vien started to wear braces as she appeared in Vietnamese traditional dress ao dai and received a national award for the most excellent female athlete of the year.
In 2021, Vien decided to leave the national team after a disapointing Tokyo Olympics. She could not advance to the finals of two events, the women’s 800m freestyle and 200m freestyle.
Vien retired in 2022 after winning nine gold medals at the Vietnam National Games.
After retiring, Vien had more time to take care of herself.
She removed braces and started wearing veneers in 2023.
In May 2023, Vien won first prize in scientific research with solutions to increase children's interest in swimming.
In July 2023, Vien was promoted from major to lieutenant colonel. She became the youngest military lieutenant colonel in Vietnam.
In October 2023, Vien graduated with honors from HCMC University of Sports, majoring in sports training.
After retiring, Vien put on more makeup and her wardrobe also changed as she chose a more feminine style. There were rumors that Vien had rhinoplasty, but she denied this.
"I didn't have a nose job. Previously, when I was still in training, I breathed a lot so my nose was big, now that I'm no longer competing, my nose is back to normal," Vien said.
In June 2024, Vien attracted attention when she modeled for a fashion brand. Many people were surprised and some couldn't realize the golden swimmer from the past.
Vien continued to draw attention when she appeared at a beauty event in HCMC earlier this month and received compliments for her transformation.
Vien is teaching at her swimming club in HCMC. She often shares her swimming experiences and tips on social media. The 26-year-old is no longer shy when appearing in front of crowds like before as she participates in community activities, does charity work and inspires the younger generation with confidence.
