(Illustration photo: VNA)

The event brought together 320 athletes and 31 masters from France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and other European countries, showing the growing reach and influence of Vietnamese culture in Europe.

The tournament was in honor of the late Vovinam master Tran Huy Phong, who played a major role in advancing Vovinam around the world.

 Since 1975, Vovinam has been growing steadily in France thanks to the efforts of  generations of masters, among them renowned names like Tran Nguyen Dao, Ba Hien, and Angela Nagot. Today, a new generation of masters continues to expand and strengthen the movement, making Vovinam a widely practiced discipline throughout Europe.

The martial art is distinguished by its harmonious blend of technical skill and philosophical teachings, integrating health-enhancing movements, self-defense forms, and a variety of weapons including sword, saber, and wooden shield.