Will the victory of women's volleyball do something for women's sports in Italy? Cold reflection on a historical result
September 7, 2025 will remain etched in the memory of all sports enthusiasts and beyond: the Italian women’s volleyball team claimed the world title in Bangkok, defeating Turkey in a nail-biting final. A victory that goes far beyond the scoreline and stands as a powerful symbol of emancipation, resilience, and recognition of women’s talent.
A historic women’s volleyball final for Italy
Italy is back on top of the world after 23 years of waiting, proving that constant work, determination, and courage pay off. The final against Turkey ended 3-2 (25-23, 13-25, 26-24, 19-25, 15-8), with a tie-break decided by a block from Myriam Sylla, sealing an intense and spectacular match. Every point, every defense, every serve was the result of months of preparation, sacrifice, and an incredible team spirit. This victory is not just a sporting triumph: it is a clear response to those who still underestimate the power of women’s sport, a powerful statement that talent, leadership, and determination have no gender (though of course, we already knew that well).
The “generation of phenomena”
The triumph in Bangkok adds to an extraordinary cycle for Italian volleyball: Olympic gold in Paris, the Nations League, and now the world championship title prove how this group of athletes has built a true “generation of phenomena.” Players like Paola Egonu, Alessia Orro, Miriam Sylla, and Anna Danesi are not only great champions: they are role models for millions of girls in Italy and worldwide. Their careers are living proof that women can claim spaces historically dominated by men and turn them into arenas of excellence. Since for years, decades, even millennia, this chance was denied to us, we are now taking it ourselves.
Beyond sport: a feminist message
This victory carries a meaning that transcends the playing field. Every spike, every block, every action on court becomes an act of affirmation: the Azzurre show that women can be protagonists, that their technical skills and leadership deserve visibility and respect. In a sports world still marked by inequalities and patriarchal legacies, their victory is an act of cultural resistance. Celebrating women’s success in sport means acknowledging their right to be seen, heard, and celebrated, and to inspire future generations.
Institutional recognition and social impact
The President of the Republic, Sergio Mattarella, invited the Azzurre to the Quirinale to celebrate their extraordinary triumph, acknowledging the importance of this success for Italian society as a whole. A symbolic gesture that highlights how women’s sport is not just entertainment, but also representation, a model of resilience, and a vehicle of civic values. The images of this celebration - athletes embracing, tears of joy, emotional smiles - tell a story of solidarity and rebirth that goes far beyond the sporting result.
Inspiration for millions of women
The Azzurre’s triumph is not just for volleyball fans: it is a universal message for all women and girls who want to dream big, who want to challenge stereotypes and barriers. Every point scored on the court is an invitation to believe in one’s abilities, to fight for one’s goals, and to never let anyone say that an achievement is “too big” for a woman. The Azzurre prove that when women come together and work side by side, they can conquer spaces of excellence, write history, and transform society. Their victory thus becomes a symbol of strength, courage, and self-determination.