Mahmoud Abdelbaki (Houda’s) rise through the age-group World Championships shows how much can change in just two years. At the FIVB Boys’ U19 World Championship in 2023, the outside hitter from Cairo scored 48 points across the tournament, with his best match a 17-point performance against Argentina.

• Watch the FIVB Volleyball Men’s U21 World Championship on VBTV

Now, at the Men’s U21 World Championship in 2025, Houda has taken on the role of one of Egypt’s main scorers. He produced 102 points in pool play, nearly tripling his total from two years earlier, with a standout 31-point display against the United States.

“In this championship I am doing much better than the last World Championship. This is a good tournament, and we are happy to be here,” he said.

For Houda, his growth also connects to the pride of representing Egypt, a team that had not featured consistently at this level in recent years. He knows how important it is for his country to show that it still belongs on the world stage.

“People say they haven’t seen Egypt for years, but we are still a very strong team in Africa,” he said.

Houda also wanted to use his moment on the world stage to speak directly to younger players who might one day follow him. His message was as straightforward as it was heartfelt.

“Work hard on yourself, study, train well, and try volleyball. God will be with you,” he said.

That same work ethic has shaped his own career. Joining Zamalek, one of Egypt’s most successful and ambitious clubs, has given him a platform to compete at the highest level at home and prepare for challenges abroad.

“I transferred to Zamalek. It is a very good club, one of the best in Egypt, always competing for the championship and bringing in professionals. Things are good for me there,” he said.

Even with the progress he has made domestically, Houda’s ambitions are already looking outward. He dreams of testing himself in the strongest leagues in Europe and sees that as the next chapter in his development.

“I want to work on myself and hope of playing in Italy or France one day.,” Houda said.

And like many rising players, he finds motivation by watching the stars of the game. Among his idols are names that dominate international volleyball.

“I really like TJ DeFalco of USA, Wilfredo Leon of Poland, and also Alessandro Michieletto of Italy,” he said.

The step from U19 to U21 has been a big one for Houda. With his scoring and ambition, he has shown he is ready for the next stage of his career.

2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s U21 World Championship: full schedule

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