Pham Van Mach, who was crowned the world bodybuilding champion in the men’s 60kg in 2001, admits to Tuoi Tre that he now lacks inspiration due to criticisms following any competition in which he does not place first.

He offered Tuoi Tre the following interview before he takes part in the 2013 World Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championships held in Hungary from November 13-17.

Tuoi Tre: Can you say something about your upcoming tournaments this year?

Pham Van Mach: Everyone wants to win a competition, but at the upcoming world event, I know I don’t have much of a chance to win it because I couldn’t concentrate when training.

In addition, I have to change my weight division to join the men’s 60kg category instead of my strong 55kg level.

So, why do you still take part in the tournament in Hungary?

I consider the Hungary tournament a part of my training to prepare for the 27th Southeast Asian Games next month in Myanmar.

The Hungary event is a good time for me to adjust my weight to 60kg.

If I wasn’t competing in the SEA Games, I wouldn’t go to Hungary.

Aren’t you inspired by competition?

Frankly, no.

I am tired of enduring criticism if I only win a silver or bronze medal. If I win gold, they aren’t surprised. I fear competition.

Many years ago, it was a big joy to compete and perform at a tournament but the fun has gradually disappeared.

My championship title from the World Bodybuilding Championship in 2001 was the most memorable and the most valuable to me because it is the first world title in bodybuilding won by Vietnam.

Do you have any plans for the future?

Maybe I will have to extend my competition career to 4-5 more years, in the men’s 60kg category.

After that I will establish my own business.

What will you do after SEA Games next month?

I will have four or five months to relax, and I will create several online music products. I have a great love for music.

How about your studies at university?

I completed a fifth of my academic program at the physical education faculty at Hong Bang University [based in Ho Chi Minh City] after two years. I was busy training during the entire last year.

I will focus on learning next year because I have a maximum of eight years to graduate.

It is estimated that Mach will perform in the men’s 60kg division at the 2013 World Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championships Saturday evening.