VietNamNet Bridge – Supermodel Tien Doan, who won the Mr. International 2008 in Taiwan yesterday, arrived at Tan Son Nhat Airport to the warm welcome of fans and correspondents. He talked with VietNamNet on his way to HCM City centre.

Tien Doan at Tan Son Nhat Airport, HCM City.

Who did you inform about your victory at Mr. International contest first?

I couldn’t call home immediately from Taiwan so the first people I shared my happiness with were Vietnamese students in Taiwan, who cheered for me at the finals. When I arrived at the airport, I called my parents.

Did you sleep well last night?

I nearly had a sleepless night because of the great happiness. My dream of proving Vietnamese beauty internationally has become true.

Which contestant left the biggest impression on you?

The Lebanese contestant, the winner of the second prize. He was very professional. He knew who the important persons were and how to impress them. The Singaporean contestant was also very good but he was modest. He was very friendly, too.

What was the question and your answer in the interview round?

My question was “Besides your job, what is your greatest concern?” and I answered: “I have to take care of myself. I was born and grew up in Vietnam. My body was created by my parents so it is natural that a child has to serve his parents. But how can I do this with poor health and career? So taking care of myself is not for myself but for my family and my country.”

What were the questions for the second- and the third-place winners?

The Chinese contestant who placed third was asked the question: “What will you bring to your country after this contest?” and the second-place, from Lebanon, had the following question: “What will you do if you are Mr. International”? My question was not more difficult or easy than theirs. I answered what I thought and my answer was highly praised.

Besides Mr. International title, you also won the Best Swimwear prize. What could you say about this title?

I was surprised about this prize. My body is not the best. Some contestants have nice bodies. The American contestant was called “Mr. Muscles”.

With the Mr. International 2008 title, what will you gain and have to do?

Through the contest I advertised the image of Vietnam to international friends and I will have to do this in the coming time. I will move to the house for Mr. International in Singapore and participate in charity activities throughout the whole world. I will also appear at Mr. International contests in different countries and participate in fashion shows.

What percentages of ability and luck helped you win the title?

I think 30% of my ability, 40% of luck and 30% of assistance from others, including Vietnamese in Taiwan. Many Vietnamese in Taiwan called or sent emails to me and asked me whether I needed any help from them. I will never forget their sentiments.

The latest photos of Mr. International 2008 Tien Doan:

Tien Doan and supermodel Phuong Linh at the airport.

Interviewer: Son Ha

Photo: KT