Latvia achieved a historic milestone at the 2025 FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championship in Adelaide, securing their first-ever gold medal in the tournament. The Latvian duo, Tina Graudina and Anastasija Samoilova, delivered a thrilling final performance, overcoming the U.S. team of Kristen Nuss and Taryn Brasher in three high-energy sets.
A Landmark Victory
Ranked fifth heading into the championship, Graudina and Samoilova performed with exceptional consistency, dropping just one set throughout the competition. In the final battle, they recorded a 2-1 victory with set scores of 21-15, 15-21, 15-11.
Key Match Highlights
- Anastasija Samoilova scored 26 points, leading the match.
- Tina Graudina contributed 21 points, reinforcing their team synergy.
- Latvia achieved its first-ever podium finish at a beach volleyball World Championship.
Behind the Success
This victory also represents the impact of Latvia’s broader commitment to the sport. Through the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment Programme, the Latvian Volleyball Federation received $168,000 in coaching support. These funds significantly enhanced athlete performance and development, propelling Latvia onto the international stage.
Bronze for Brazil
In the bronze medal match, Brazil continued to assert its dominance in beach volleyball. Carol Solberg and Rebecca Cavalcanti defeated their top-seeded compatriots Thamela Coradello and Victoria Lopes in straight sets (21-18, 22-20), marking Brazil’s 19th podium appearance at this level.
Latvia’s Rising Influence
The win not only brings pride to Latvia but also cements Graudina and Samoilova as trailblazers in European beach volleyball. Their performance in Adelaide symbolizes a significant breakthrough and reaffirms Europe’s growing competitiveness in the global sports arena.
Read the full story on the FIVB official website.
