The top-ranked team added yet another trophy to their cabinet by prevailing over continental rivals 3-2 (25-23, 13-25, 26-24, 19-25, 15-8) at the Huamark Indoor Stadium to claim their first world crown in 23 years, reports the Bangkok Post.
Thailand’s former minister of tourism and sports Sorawong Thienthong said: “The tournament has been a great success and it was well received by the Thai sports fans.
“The organisation of the three-week event was also top-notch and it has been duly praised by the FIVB and volleyball fans across the globe.”
The Italians won the tournament for the first time back in 2002 and have now made three consecutive podium appearances after taking silver in 2018 and bronze in 2022.
Sunday’s victory gave the Italians their fourth major international title in just over a year, following their victories at the Volleyball Nations League and the Paris Olympics in 2024 and their repeat as VNL champions just over a month ago.
Now undefeated in the 36 matches they played in the last 15 months, the Italians are the first women’s national team to simultaneously hold the Olympic and the world titles since Cuba did it in 2002.
“This victory is very emotional for us,” said head coach Julio Velasco. “After winning the World Championship, the Olympics, and two VNLs, I believe this team will be remembered as a legendary one in the future, like a few others.
“I’m very proud of them. They won two very difficult matches over the last two days, and they do their best every single day in practice and really deserve everything they’ve achieved,” he added.
Star opposite Paola Egonu led the Italians to the title with 22 points (18 kills, three blocks, one ace).
“I still can’t believe it,” Egonu said. “I’m really proud of the team and incredibly happy. This is a moment I’ll never forget. It’s probably the last time for some of our players, too, and my heart is full now.”
Outside hitter Myriam Sylla contributed 19 points (14 kills, four blocks, one ace), while Ekaterina Antropova made a difference off the bench, producing 14 points (12 kills, two blocks).
The final’s top scorer was Turkish star opposite Melissa Vargas, who tallied an incredible 33 points, with 28 kills, four aces and one block. Captain Eda Erdem also played a very solid match, contributing 19 points, with 15 kills, three blocks and one ace.
Earlier on Sunday, Brazil topped Japan 3-2 (25-12, 25-17, 19-25, 27-29, 18-16) to finish third in the 20th edition of the tournament.