The Italian men’s national volleyball team celebrates after winning the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship in Manila, their second consecutive and fifth overall world title. (Photo courtesy of FIVB/Volleyball World)
PASAY CITY — Italy defeated Bulgaria in four sets on September 28 to win the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, retaining the title it captured in 2022 in Poland and Slovenia. The Azzurri prevailed 25–21, 25–17, 17–25, 25–10 before an announced crowd of more than 16,000.
Outside hitter Alessandro Michieletto was named Most Valuable Player after spearheading Italy’s attack throughout the tournament. The victory gave Italy its second consecutive and fifth overall men’s world championship, the most of any nation.
A milestone for Philippine men’s volleyball
The Philippines hosted the Men’s World Championship for the first time, bringing 32 national teams to Metro Manila from September 12 to 28, with matches at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay and the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
The host nation delivered a breakthrough when Alas Pilipinas defeated Egypt 3–1 in pool play, the country’s first-ever win at a men’s world championship. The result, celebrated widely by fans and officials, was seen as a turning point for Philippine men’s volleyball, which has long been overshadowed by the women’s game.
Bulgaria’s resurgence and Poland’s bronze
Bulgaria reached its first world championship final since 1970, highlighted by a five-set quarterfinal win over the United States.
Poland secured the bronze medal, defeating Czechia in the third-place match to earn its first-ever world championship bronze.
Hosting significance
The event drew scrutiny over high ticket prices and a revoked media accreditation that was later reinstated following criticism. Despite those concerns, the tournament was widely praised for its energy and attendance. The final weekend drew record local crowds and highlighted the growing appetite for men’s volleyball in the country.
For Italy, the title solidified its place as the most decorated nation in men’s volleyball. For Bulgaria and Poland, the podium finishes were milestones decades in the making. For the Philippines, the tournament was both a global showcase and a signal that its men’s volleyball program is ready to expand on the world stage.
