Carol Solberg Aims for More Gold at Rio's Elite Beach Pro Tour

The 2025 Beach Pro Tour makes a vibrant return to Brazil as elite international teams converge on Copacabana Beach from September 24 to 28. This stop marks the fourth Elite16 event in Brazil this season and the tour’s ninth overall, promising top-tier action in one of volleyball’s most iconic locations.

Carol Solberg Eyes Repeat Success

Defending gold medalist Carol Solberg is back with a new partner, Rebecca Cavalcanti, as they aim to build momentum from their 11th seed position. The duo anchors Pool B, facing off against formidable challengers like the American pair, Julia Donlin and Lexy Denaburg.

Teams to Watch

  • Thamela Coradello and Victoria Lopes (Brazil): The current world No. 1 pair leads Pool A, returning after winning bronze in Rio last year.
  • Tina Graudina and Anastasija Samoilova (Latvia): Ranked third globally, the Latvian stars also feature in Pool B.
  • Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft (USA): Silver medalists in Rio last year and Joao Pessoa finalists, they head Pool E.
  • Kelly Cheng and Molly Shaw (USA): Fresh off a Joao Pessoa victory, they compete in Pool D.
  • Svenja Muller and Cinja Tillmann (Germany): Ranked seventh and expected to make a strong run.

Road to the Knockouts

Qualifiers began Wednesday, with eight teams joining the 24-team main draw. Notable qualifiers include Australia’s Taliqua Clancy and Lithuania’s Monika Paulikiene. The main draw adopts a modified pool format, where:

  1. The top three teams from each pool will proceed to the knockout rounds.
  2. Medal matches will conclude the event on Sunday.

Why Rio Matters

This Rio stop isn’t just a fan favorite—it plays a critical role in the Beach Pro Tour's dense 2025 schedule. With so many ranking points and pride on the line, top-tier teams are eager to make a statement on the famed sands of Brazil.

For more event details, view the full article on Volleyball World.