MVP Alessandro Michieletto capped Italy's golden run at the 2025 FIVB Men's World Championship by leading the Azzurri to back-to-back titles.
Alessandro Michieletto’s rise as one of volleyball’s brightest stars reached another peak on Sunday, September 28, as he helped Italy secure back-to-back FIVB Men’s World Championships at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Fresh off being named tournament MVP, the 23-year-old outside hitter reflected on Italy’s journey to the top, admitting that defending the crown was even harder than winning it the first time.
“I think everything is for the tournament, because today we played all good, like Yuri and Mattia,” Michieletto said.
“I’m very happy because two times in a row is very difficult for a championship against incredible teams. I think that we played better against Poland than today, but okay, it’s no problem. The important thing is to get the gold.”
Italy’s dominance
The victory capped a memorable summer for the Azzurri, who also claimed a silver VNL 2025 medal in the lead-up to Manila for the world championship.
Italy raises the 2025 FIVB Men's World Championship trophy after beating Bulgaria in the gold medal match. | Photo: RM Chua/One Sports
For Michieletto, it was proof that Italy has earned its place atop world volleyball.
“I’m very happy because this summer we reached two medals in the World Championship. I can say we are the best team in the world,” he said.
From slow start to strong finish
The Italian captain also looked back on their progression through the tournament, from a shaky group stage to their commanding Finals finish.
“We played in the pool not so good. I think that we improved, we played better after the pool — from Argentina, Belgium, Poland,” Michieletto noted, as the Italians finished 2-1 in Pool F after a loss to Belgium.
With Italy now a five-time world champion and Michieletto at the heart of it all, the Azzurri head into a new era of dominance — and their 23-year-old MVP believes the best is still to come.
The world no. 2 Italians will now look towards defending their crown come the 2027 FIVB Men’s World Championship in Poland.
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Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.
Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.