Despite the absence of four key players affecting the home team`s performance and leading to Sweden finishing in fourth place, the Final Four of the women`s European Golden League held last weekend in Ängelholm was a significant success. The event, particularly the bronze medal match between Sweden and Romania, set an all-time attendance record for women`s volleyball in the Scandinavian country, attracting over 4,000 spectators to Catena Arena.
Superstar Isabelle Haak delivered an impressive performance, scoring 43 points, yet Sweden was narrowly defeated by Romania in a highly entertaining bronze medal match. The atmosphere in the arena was electric, with many attendees experiencing elite live volleyball for the first time.
CEV President Roko Sikirić was among the prominent guests. He highly praised the local organizers, stating, “The Swedish Volleyball Federation and the local Organizing Committee did a tremendous job, especially in keeping the audience engaged and ensuring a great atmosphere for all participating teams. This clearly indicates that volleyball is currently experiencing a golden era in Sweden, and we look forward to next year`s EuroVolley in Gothenburg to further enhance the sport`s visibility.”
The absence of four players prevented the Swedish team from defending the Golden League title they won last year. However, with their upcoming World Championship debut in Thailand later this year and EuroVolley scheduled on home soil next year, Haak and her teammates have promising events ahead. Volleyball continues to grow rapidly in Sweden. Furthermore, the men`s national team will compete against Hungary in the Silver League Finals this week, with promotion to the 2026 Golden League at stake. It`s a continuing success story for Swedish volleyball.
Jasper Thornfield 
Finley Blackwood