Milan, Italy – The roar of an adoring nation, not unlike the thunderous applause that punctuated their dramatic victory in Bangkok, greeted the Italian women`s volleyball team upon their return to Malpensa Airport. Having just sealed their second FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship title, the “Azzurre” weren`t merely coming home; they were returning as legends, having etched their names into the annals of sporting history with an unprecedented “Triple Crown.”
A Crown Forged in Bangkok`s Heat
The journey to this historic triumph culminated in a grueling five-set battle against a formidable Türkiye squad in the Bangkok final. A true test of nerve and skill, the match saw Italy claw their way to a 3-2 victory (25-23, 13-25, 26-24, 19-25, 15-8). It was a performance that highlighted not only their exceptional talent but also their unyielding resilience, a quality lauded by Head Coach Julio Velasco, who aptly described his group as “legendary.”
The scoreboard tells only part of the story. Individual brilliance shone through, with the powerful Paola Egonu delivering 22 crucial points, while Myriam Sylla added 19. The tactical depth of the squad was evident as Ekaterina Antropova provided decisive plays off the bench, shifting the momentum when it mattered most. This collective effort, combined with Velasco’s strategic acumen, saw them navigate two demanding five-set encounters in the closing rounds, leaving no doubt about their championship mettle.
The Unprecedented “Triple Crown”: A New Dynasty Arises
What elevates this victory beyond a mere championship title is its significance within a broader, dazzling constellation of achievements. This World Championship crown completes a remarkable “Triple Crown” for Italy, adding to their Olympic gold medal from Paris and their back-to-back Volleyball Nations League titles. This isn`t just a winning streak; it`s a testament to sustained dominance, stretching their unbeaten run to an astonishing 36 matches.
To put this into perspective, only two other women’s national teams in the entire history of volleyball have managed to concurrently hold all three major titles: the legendary Chinese squad of the early 1980s and the indomitable Cuban team at the turn of the millennium. Italy now stands shoulder-to-shoulder with these titans, marking a new era in the sport. One might almost muse that they`ve made history look rather routine, effortlessly collecting the most prestigious accolades as if they were everyday souvenirs.
Malpensa`s Euphoria: A Nation Embraces Its Heroes
Hours after their overnight flight from Thailand, complete with a stop in Dubai, the Azzurre stepped into the arrivals hall of Malpensa Airport to a reception fit for royalty. Captain Anna Danesi, holding the gleaming trophy aloft, led the charge into an authentic “bath of crowd and affection.” The terminal erupted with applause and chants, a wave of national pride that briefly rendered the players speechless.
Despite the undeniable fatigue from their transcontinental journey, the squad embraced the pandemonium. Fans waved flags, clamored for photos, and pressed forward for autographs. The players, in turn, indulged every request, soaking in the palpable scale of their achievement and the overwhelming support from their compatriots. Federation officials, including Vice President Massimo Sala and Lombardy regional president Piero Cezza, were present to underscore the profound pride felt across the nation.
The Architects of Gold: Individual Brilliance and Collective Spirit
While team effort is paramount, individual accolades highlight the depth of Italy’s dominance. Setter Alessia Orro was deservedly named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) and Best Setter – a recognition that firmly places her at the heart of this “golden generation.” She was joined in the coveted Dream Team by the ever-reliable libero Monica De Gennaro and the commanding middle blocker Anna Danesi, underscoring the formidable strength across all positions.
These players, under Velasco`s shrewd leadership, have cultivated a synergy that transforms individual talent into an unstoppable collective force. Their commitment to excellence, their tactical precision, and their unwavering belief in each other have been the cornerstones of this unparalleled success.
A Legacy Assured, Celebrations Just Beginning
This latest triumph augments Italy’s already impressive legacy, adding a second World Championship to their 2002 breakthrough title, 2018 silver, and 2022 bronze. With four medals overall at the tournament, their place in volleyball history is not just assured; it is cemented as one of the sport`s all-time great teams.
For the players, the rigorous schedule and intense pressure have momentarily given way to well-deserved celebrations. The cheers at Malpensa were merely the opening act. As they move from the airport into the arms of their nation, one can`t help but wonder what new heights this formidable squad will conquer next. For now, however, Italy’s “Azzurre” stand alone, reigning supreme, having redefined what is possible in the world of women`s volleyball.
Marcus Blakely