Italy returned to the top of the volleyball world after 23 years, edging out Türkiye in a thrilling 3-2 victory at the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship final in Bangkok. The Azzurre clinched the decisive fifth set 15-8, wrapping up a flawless campaign with seven consecutive wins in Thailand.
Led by legendary coach Julio Velasco, Italy’s triumph caps a historic run, adding the World Championship to their Paris 2024 Olympic gold and consecutive Volleyball Nations League (VNL) titles — cementing their status as a golden generation in the sport.
Standout Players Shine in Epic Clash
Star opposite Paola Egonu powered Italy’s offense with 22 points, backed by captain Myriam Sylla with 19, while Ekaterina Antropova made a crucial impact off the bench with 14 points in key moments.
On the other side, Türkiye’s Melissa Vargas was unstoppable, leading all scorers with a spectacular 33 points. Captain Eda Erdem added 19 in a hard-fought effort.
Related News
Final Set Turns on Blocking Power
Despite Türkiye outperforming Italy in kills (68–59) and service aces (7–5), Italy’s superior blocking (14 to 10) proved the difference-maker in the final set, sealing their dramatic victory.
Historic Achievement
Italy’s win makes them the first team since Cuba in 2002 to hold both the Olympic and World Championship titles at the same time — a feat that highlights their dominance on the world stage.
“This team will be remembered as legendary,” said coach Velasco. Egonu echoed the sentiment, saying: “I’m so proud of what we achieved. This moment will stay with me forever.”
