Tran Thi Thanh Thuy, also known as T4, called the Philippines her "lucky place" as she nears another title in the 2025 AVC Women’s Champions League.
Tran Thi Thanh Thuy — more popularly known as T4 — believes the Philippines continues to be her lucky charm as she leads VTV Binh Dien Long An closer to the 2025 AVC Women’s Champions League crown.
T4 and her squad got revenge against China's Beijing BAIC Motor, sweeping them, 25-15, 25-19, 25-21, in their semifinal clash at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig on Saturday, April 26.
With the victory, VTV Binh Dien Long An not only booked a spot in the tournament final but also secured qualification to the prestigious 2025 FIVB Women's Volleyball Club World Championship.
For T4, the Philippine stage holds a special place in her heart.
"I think it's a lucky place for me and the team. I love playing in the Philippines. I love the Philippine crowd," the 6-foot-4 Vietnamese star told a translator during the post-game press conference.
"I'm very happy to be back here in the Philippines, and I think the Philippines is a very lucky place for me."
A familiar face to Filipino volleyball fans, T4 has built a strong connection with the local crowd over the years, starting with the 2019 Southeast Asian Games, where she helped Vietnam claim silver.
She returned to the same venue for the 2022 AVC Cup where Vietnam finished in fourth place behind Asian volleyball powerhouses Japan, China, and Thailand.
T4 made her Philippine return during the 2024 AVC Women’s Challenge Cup, where the national team bagged the gold medal, before eventually finishing bronze in the Challenger Cup later that year.
[ALSO READ: Vietnam star T4 admits nervousness in first game back from injury vs Alas Pilipinas in 2024 FIVB Women’s Challenger Cup]
T4 shared how the support from the Filipino crowd always gives her an extra push during matches.
"When I hear the support from the crowd during the match, it's a real big boost for me and the team, knowing that the fans want me to win and to do well. It's a good feeling."
Now with another opportunity to raise a trophy, T4 and VTV Binh Dien Long An will aim to continue their dominant run and cap off their Philippine campaign on a golden note.