The 2025 SEA Games in Thailand concluded with record-breaking performances from over 13,000 athletes representing 10 nations across 50 sports. A celebration of grit, sportsmanship, and determination, the biennial event went beyond athletic excellence to spotlight some of the region’s most captivating personalities. These athletes brought their A-game to the arena—and didn’t leave without serving face.
Scroll on to meet the hottest athletes from the region who caught our eye.
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Sharul Aimy
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When it comes to gymnastics, the spotlight often falls on the grace of female athletes—but it’s time to give the men their due. Enter Sharul Aimy, the 24-year-old Malaysian artistic gymnast whose chiseled physique and sharp features suggest that God truly took His time sculpting him. More than just easy on the eyes, the rising star recently vaulted into the history books, clinching Malaysia’s first-ever gold medal in the men’s vault at the 33rd SEA Games.
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Eliza Chong
Eliza Chong is the definition of having the perfect summer tan. The Singaporean beach volleyball player is winning hearts far beyond our shores with her radiant, charming smile and sun-kissed glow. The national player has been representing Singapore since she was 16 years old, competing in the SEA Games and Commonwealth Games. Off the court, she’s just like any other girl—travelling, eating good food, and taking stunning pictures for the gram.
Kin Tanachai Sakchaicharoenkul
If we’re talking about hot athletes, we can’t skip the ice hockey players. Kin Tanachai represents Thailand on the ice as a forward for the men’s ice hockey team which clinched the silver medal at the recent games. With his boyish charm and undeniable star quality, he is also establishing his on-screen presence as an actor for entertainment powerhouse, GMMTV. Beyond the rink and screen, Kin is also pursuing his Master’s degree, proving that he has the brains to match his brawn. Excelling in three different fields? We have no choice but to stan.
Praew Thipwarintorn Yannakornthanapunt
At 19 years old, Praew Thipwarintorn has already established her athletic prowess as captain of the Thai women’s national ice hockey team. While she looks unassuming and innocent off the rink, she takes on a different persona on ice as the team’s charismatic and formidable forward. The ice hockey star led her team to a historic victory in the final match against Philippines at the recent SEA Games. With her effortless cool girl energy, it’s no surprise that she has a steadily growing fanbase.
Elijah Cole
He’s a runner, he’s a track star. Standing at 1.82m with an unmistakable smile, Elijah Cole first caught attention for his dashing looks and a name that sent netizens into a frenzy over its cheeky double meaning (best left unexplained). But beyond the buzz, he is the full package—recently proving his technical prowess on the regional stage by clinching a bronze medal in the men’s pole vault final at the SEA Games for Team Philippines.
Vanie Gandler
Beyond their prowess on the court, the Philippines’ women’s indoor volleyball team also boasts a roster of striking talents, with Vanie Gandler standing out as a prime example. The outside hitter has become a fan favourite not just for her statuesque presence and effortless allure, but for her undeniable skill and passion for the game. Beyond her role on the national team, the volleyball star is also among the top scorers for the Cignal HD Spikers in the Premier Volleyball League.
Zachary Helzer
Zach Helzer is Singapore’s rising basketball star, making his SEA Games debut this year and signalling the start of a promising ascent. The rookie has already captured attention with his athletic frame and fresh-faced appeal, proving that his presence extends well beyond the court. While it’s still early days in the point guard’s breakout career, one thing is clear—besides shooting hoops, he has a natural knack for stealing hearts too.
Chanelle Van Nguyen
Stunning, athletic, and stylish. Chanelle Van Nguyen has all the makings of an “it” girl. Always camera-ready, the tennis player’s instagram feed is nothing less than perfect—sharing moments on the court, attending events, and time spent with her girls. The Filipino-American proves that she’s more than just a pretty face, representing Vietnam to win the bronze medal for the tennis women’s singles during the 2022 SEA Games.
Zubin Muncherji
Zubin Muncherji is one of Singapore’s standout figures in track and field. The 29-year-old sprinter holds national records in the 400m and several indoor events, cementing his place among the country’s elite athletes. At the SEA Games, he closed out the competition on a high, anchoring Singapore’s men’s 4×400m relay team alongside Quek, Thiruben Thana Rajan and Reuben Lee to a bronze-medal finish, crossing the line in a time of 3:10.74 on the final day of athletics action.