Simone Giannelli has become volleyball world champion for the second time. © APA/afp / SHERWIN VARDELEON

Golden tears: Giannelli very emotional after World Cup title

Simone Giannelli and Italy's national volleyball team defended their World Championship title. Afterward, the South Tyrolean showed his emotional side.

September 28, 2025

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A little fun is a must, Simone Giannelli probably thought at the awards ceremony. As captain of the Azzurri, the 29-year-old received the award after the historic triumph in the World Cup final against Bulgaria ( 25:21, 25:17, 17:25, 25:10) presented the trophy – and kept his teammates somewhat in suspense. The Bolzano native faked a celebration a few times before finally raising the trophy and initiating the exuberant celebrations in Manila.

What caught the eye was his jersey, which did not bear his own name, but that of a teammate who was unable to compete in the Philippines: Daniele Lavia. A heartwarming gesture, which he subsequently expressed in an interview with Rai 2 explained – and fought back tears. "It's hard for me to speak," Giannelli said, his voice shaky and his eyes filled with tears. "It's the sadness that Daniele couldn't be with us. He's a great friend, and I know how much he suffered at home."

“We made history today and accomplished something incredible.” Simone Giannelli

What made the scene all the more emotional was that Lavia, who missed the World Cup due to a serious hand injury, was sitting in the TV studio during the interview and was superimposed. He repeatedly wiped tears from his face. "Even though he wasn't with us, we always carried him in our hearts," Giannelli continued. "I thank him for still standing by us, because it wasn't easy. I'm proud to wear his jersey here."

Finally, Giannelli reflected on the significance of the historic triumph. "We are world champions and we're simply celebrating the sadness away," said the national team captain. "We made history today and achieved something incredible. We're not people who give up."

“The boys were just great”

However, more important to him than his second consecutive World Cup title was the way the Azzurri crowned themselves the kings of the world. "That's much more important to me than winning," emphasized the Bolzano native. "We were simply there, even in the difficult moments. We suffered – and stood as one team on the field. I have nothing but praise for my team. The boys were simply fantastic."