Michal Kubiak bids farewell to national team

Eleven years after making his first appearance for Poland, Michal Kubiak has announced his decision to put an end to his national team career. The two-time back-to-back world champion bid farewell to the white-and-red jersey with an emotional post on Instagram.

“My time in the white and red colours has come to an end,” the 34-year-old athlete wrote. “I made my decision some time ago and today I added the final dot. I would like to start by thanking you...”

Kubiak, who will continue to compete for Japan’s Panasonic Panthers Hirakata at the club level, expressed his gratitude to his closest family members and thanked his teammates.

“To my colleagues and friends from the national team: Guys, it was an honour to be your captain for eight years. I know I wasn't perfect, but I always tried to do my best to win. ALWAYS!”

The 1.91m-tall outside hitter contributed to Poland’s FIVB Volleyball World Championship title in 2014 and captained the team four years later in their quest to defend their crown, earning a spot on the Dream Team in the process. Obviously, he will be missed as the Polish team attempt to make it three in a row at the World Championship later this year.

Kubiak’s national team bio also boasts three FIVB Volleyball World Cup medals (two silvers and a bronze), a 2012 gold and a 2011 bronze in the FIVB Volleyball World League, three EuroVolley podiums, as well as a 2019 bronze and a 2021 silver in the FIVB Volleyball Nations League. He also claimed another individual award as an outside hitter on last year’s VNL Dream Team. The only thing he can regret as he says goodbye to the national team is not making it to the Olympic podium.

“I wish you to finally reach the Olympic summit and when you are there, and you will be there for sure, mention your old friend and the dream that I will never be able to make come true,” he continued his address to his former teammates. “I believe in you. Paris is yours.”

Of course, Kubiak did not forget to thank the fantastic Polish fans, who always offer their valuable support to the team.

“The best fans in the world, I will not forget these moments for the rest of my life. You were what motivated me to get up every morning and give my best.”