Hot girl of the month: No matter her success, the wushu girl remains 'mom's little girl' at home

Known as a Wushu hot girl and an eSports goddess, but to Nana Đặng Tiểu Bình, her only precious nickname is “mom’s little girl.”

Do you know anyone who has participated in 2 two SEA Games in two completely unrelated sports, and in different roles? Đặng Tiểu Bình is the only one with such a rare case.

Born in 2000, she became widely known at the 31st SEA Games (held in 2021 in Vietnam) with the nickname “Wushu hot girl.” Then, just a year later, the athlete unexpectedly quit her career to change to eSports, becoming the “Valorant goddess” and attending SEA Games as a… referee.

At 24, after experiencing success and online pressures, Đặng Tiểu Bình showcased confidence in Mansion Sports Vietnam’s “Hot Girl of the Month” series.

Hello Nana. You’ve gone through many jobs from a martial artist, a streamer, to MC in eSports. With so many changes in such a short time, were you surprised by the journey you’ve experienced recently?

I was both surprised and not surprised. Surprised when I look back at the past two years and realized I’ve switched quite a few roles and jobs. But I wasn’t surprised because I’ve always followed my passion.

Being familiar with such career transitions, this breakthrough photoshoot with Mansion Sports Vietnam doesn’t seem to challenge you much.

This is definitely not my everyday style. But actually, this style has a lot in common with my inner self. I really like this style because it expresses my inner self.

Your real name is quite unique. Is there any story behind your parents’ decision to give you this name?

Actually, at first, my dad gave me just an ordinary name: Đặng Bùi Bảo Nhi. But my mom wanted me to accomplish something great as I grew up, and people get impressed by my name.

That impressive name has brought some troubles to Nana.

Winning a prestigious title at the 31st SEA Games brought me significant news coverage, attention, and national praise. However, alongside the recognition came negative opinions and comments, which led to a period of discomfort. Over time, I’ve learned to accept and be more open to different opinions.

Back then, I reacted impulsively, especially when my mom, who means everything to me, was affected. While I could handle harsh words directed at me, involving my family, particularly my mom, was deeply upsetting. I even responded to some comments in frustration. Now, I appreciate the support from strangers who stood by us and realize that focusing on negativity only harms myself and my loved ones.

How did you and your family get through that time?

I’m quite a hot-tempered person. At that time, I felt very sad and desperate. What hurt me the most was that people criticized at my family.

I didn’t hope for so much but just hoped the community would be more sympathetic toward me, to stop attacking my family. I love my mom, so I didn’t feel too sorry for myself.

You became well-known because of wushu. How did that journey begin?

As a small, sickly child, my parents enrolled me in martial arts to improve my health. Unexpectedly, I discovered a natural talent and a passion fueled by kung fu movies. Wanting to protect my friends, I dedicated myself to martial arts and continued for 16 years..

What has Wushu brought to you? Do you regret choosing this sport?

As a Wushu girl, I have some regrets but gained more. Sixteen years in sports meant missed summers, family time, and holidays abroad. Yet, I brought titles home, traveled, competed internationally, and, most importantly, supported my mom. Passion for sports made it all possible.

How does it feel to bring glory to the country?

Let’s imagine the Vietnamese flag fluttering at an international event, and singing the national anthem with pride, that scene brought tears and made me feel emotional. The most memorable competition for me is probably SEA Games 31. I was quite lucky because the only SEA Games I participated hosted at home. Besides the support from my family and friends, there are also many Vietnamese fans cheering me on, which gave me great motivation to try my best.

You’ve trained hard for many years, gained many achievements and milestones. So why suddenly switch to another sport?

Sports have given me a lot, but there are also some regrets, things I missed during that time. Now I feel that I’ve accomplished enough for myself, and I want to use the remaining years of my youth to pursue my other passions.

Is it esports?

Yes, that’s right.

Did someone guide you, or was it a decision you thought about for a long time?

Usually, parents do not support their children playing games. I started playing games when I was 5 years old, I played whenever I had free time. But it didn’t affect my education, just to be clear.

Unlike other kids who enjoyed playing with toys or stuffed bear, I preferred playing games. But I still went to school, got all my subjects done,

What makes you confident in choosing this path?

I loved every path I’ve been going through. People need to have interest and passion in order to have things done well. I always make sure that I love the decisions that i make. When I love it, I can do anything.

I really love esports and once wanted to become a professional player. But later, I didn’t have enough time to practice and lacked the necessary skills so I pursued another job in esports.

For example, I need to have knowledge, to be articulate in order to become a host (MC) You also need appearance and certain skills. Being a referee requires deep knowledge related to esports and, of course, a true passion.

There’s a complicated English rules in esports, but I’m not very good at English, so I had to use Google Translate to help me in my job.

How is a day with esports different from a day as a Wushu athlete?

Not much changed. Before, I spent all day from morning until evening practicing Wushu. Now, I use that time for esports. However, I’ve had to adjust a bit.

Back to the training time, I went to bed quite early. But now, I stay up late at night to follow up with tournaments that are held abroad. I don’t train as much as before, so I’ve put on a bit of weight, but there’s a certain level of comfort.

I have a sweet tooth. Back then, I had a nutritionist, so I could only eat a certain amount every day. Now, I can try everything I want, but still within my control. These days, I sleep until 12 PM or 10 AM, which wasn’t possible when I was training in sports.

It seems like you are used to being independent as you have often been away from your family, and now you move to Ho Chi Minh City.

Yes, I am. I’ve been involved in sports for 16 years. That time helped me become more independent and mature. It’s also one of my strengths. If I pursue a job far away from home in the future, I might not have any trouble anymore. I am being more mature now, experience more, learn a lot outside of sports. But my enthusiasm, passion, and happiness haven’t faded, whether it was in the past or now.

Do you see esports as a long-term career, with plans for many years?

I pursue esports for passion and financial support, aiming to care for my mom. Passion must sustain both dreams and income.

How does it feel to be your mother’s pride?

Feel little. My mother helped me become who I am today. She’s an ideal role model in my heart. No matter how successful I am out there, at home, I will always be my mother’s little child.