The FIVB Empowerment initiative demonstrated its growing global impact at the 2025 Xiamen Beach Volleyball Challenge, where Empowerment-supported teams secured five out of six available medals. This overwhelming success highlights the program’s effectiveness in boosting international volleyball through strategic investment in athlete development, coaching, and resources.
Men’s Tournament Results
Qatar’s Cherif Younousse and Ahmed Tijan showcased exceptional form by going undefeated and capturing the gold medal, marking their first Beach Pro Tour title since 2022. They defeated Switzerland’s Marco Krattiger and Leo Dillier in straight sets.
- Gold: Qatar – Cherif Younousse & Ahmed Tijan
- Silver: Switzerland – Marco Krattiger & Leo Dillier
- Bronze: France – Teo Rotar & Arnaud Gauthier-Rat
All three podium placements in the men's event were filled by athletes from Empowerment-backed national programs.
Women’s Tournament Highlights
The American duo, Toni Rodriguez and Kylie Kuyava-De Berg, clinched their first title on the Beach Pro Tour, earning gold after an impressive series of performances. Finland and Germany also celebrated rare podium finishes, signaling rising competitiveness from diverse volleyball regions.
- Gold: USA – Toni Rodriguez & Kylie Kuyava-De Berg
- Silver: Finland – Taru Lahti-Liukkonen & Niina Ahtiainen
- Bronze: Germany – Lea Kunst & Melanie Paul
In total, 99 teams from 30 nations participated, with the Empowerment initiative playing a crucial role in boosting the international profiles of emerging volleyball nations.
The Road Ahead
With the next Beach Pro Tour Challenge scheduled in Alanya, Türkiye from June 11 to 15, the impact of the FIVB’s support programs is expected to grow. Empowerment-backed teams will look to extend their success and continue redefining the competitive landscape of international beach volleyball.
For more details, visit the official article on the FIVB website.
