Foreign-heritage stars add international flavour

THAILAND: KIERAN TUNTIVATE (ATHLETICS) Born in Washington to a Thai father and American mother, Kieran Tuntivate became a household name in Thailand after winning two gold medals in the 5,000m and 10,000m events at the 2019 SEA Games.

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He continued his rise at the 2023 Games, adding two more golds in the 1,500m and 5,000m.

Now 28 and a Harvard graduate, he is brimming with confidence as he eyes golds in three events — the 1,500m, 5,000m and 10,000m - on home soil.

VIETNAM: VIKTOR LE (FOOTBALL)

Born in Russia in 2003 to a Vietnamese father and a Russian mother, Viktor Le is a product of CSKA Moscow’s youth academy and moved to Vietnam in search of a professional career.

The 22-year-old attacking midfielder, who was granted Vietnamese citizenship in December 2024, joined local side Quy Nhon United in 2023, flourished in domestic football and is now at Hong Linh Ha Tinh. He has already tasted success with Vietnam at the Asean Under-23 Championship in July.

INDONESIA: EVGENII NURISLAMOV (ICE HOCKEY)