The Italian volleyball women’s national team has been a powerhouse in the sport for decades, but the Olympic Games were a thorn on their side. At least until Paris 2024.
During 16 days in the summer of 2024, the Europeans were unstoppable at the South Paris Arena 1, making history for their country by winning its first-ever Olympic gold medal. The Italians left no doubt about which was the best women’s team in the world as they completed their campaign in the French capital with six victories and just one set lost and in first place in the FIVB World Rankings.
The historic victory in Paris made justice to what’s arguably the most talented generation the country has ever produced, featuring international stars like opposite Paola Egonu, libero Monica De Gennaro, middle blocker Anna Danesi and outside hitter Miriam Sylla.
“This is really special,” De Gennaro said. “It was the dream of all of us players to play in a final and to get to win it, it's really something unique. We've worked hard for so many years to make it to this final and to get to experience it and get gold, it's really amazing. During my career, I've worked every day with the goal of getting better and preparing for this moment and this is a great reward for all the hard work we made.”
