United States conquers historic

U21 World Championship Bronze medal

August 31, 2025.- The United States conquered its first medal in the history of the competition in this age category, after sweeping Czechia 3-0 (25-20, 25-19, 25-18) in the bronze medal match.

Fourteen years after coming very close to the podium, the Americans set the pace with calm and control, steadily pulling away in each set to complete the sweep.

The victory was built on a balanced and complete performance, as the United States totaled 42 kills, four aces and eight blocks, while limiting their errors to only 13. Captain Sean Kelly led with 19 points (14 kills, three blocks and two aces), while Cole Hartke contributed 12.

Their solid defense contained the Czech attack, limiting captain Matej Pastrnak to 13 points and opposite Tomas Brichta to just six. With rallies consistently defined thanks to blocking and floor coverage, the Americans closed out the match and celebrated a long-awaited place on the podium.

Within the Dream Team, Sean Kelly of the United States was included, who was chosen as one of the Best Outside Hitters, after helping his team to achieve the historic bronze medal.

Cuba finishes seventh place

For seventh place, Cuba defeated host China 3-1 (25-20, 25-19, 20-25, 25-22), driven by the power of Daniel Martínez, who scored 26 points, and Carlos Javier Pereira Larea, who added 17. After conceding the third set to Wu Haoze and Li Hai, the Cubans regrouped in the fourth to close their tournament with a victory.