At just sixteen, outside hitter Lucas Righi Carvalho, son of Olympic gold medalist Janelson Carvalho, is already making a name for himself at the FIVB Boys’ U19 World Championship 2025.
Following in his father`s footsteps as an outside hitter, Lucas Rigui has emerged as a key player for Brazil in Tashkent, consistently delivering strong performances and demonstrating composure under pressure. While his father`s legacy is a significant inspiration, Lucas`s ambition extends beyond merely matching it; he aims to surpass it.
“I`m always driven by the desire to be better than my dad,” the young Brazilian stated. “In every practice, with every ball, I give my absolute best to surpass him.”
This determined mindset has been instrumental in his progression through Brazil`s youth volleyball system. After contributing to an eighth-place finish at the U17 World Championship last year, the gifted outside hitter returned to the international arena with enhanced strength, improved sharpness, and unwavering resolve. In 2025, he has maintained an impressive average of 13 points per match, notably scoring a team-high 18 against Uzbekistan and 15 in critical matches against France and Finland.
Reflecting on the match against the host nation, Lucas Rigui commented, “I believe it was a strong performance from our side. Uzbekistan has a very well-rounded, talented team, with particularly powerful outside hitters. We managed to impose our rhythm, minimize errors, and execute more successful blocks and attacks. I think those aspects were crucial.”
The Boys’ U19 World Championship serves as a significant personal benchmark for him.
“It`s been an incredible experience,” Lucas Rigui shared. “It allows me to observe the caliber of athletes my age from various countries. It`s valuable to understand my own standing, my skill level, and the overall level of the competing teams.”
His passion and foundation in volleyball were nurtured at home. His father, Janelson, was a member of Brazil’s `Golden Generation,` the team that secured the nation`s inaugural men`s Olympic gold medal in Barcelona in 1992. This upbringing significantly influenced Lucas`s approach to the sport.
“Having a role model right at home is invaluable,” the outside hitter stated. “He constantly supports me, offering advice on everything from passing to attacking. He also played as an outside hitter and competed in numerous youth World Championships.”
Pondering his father`s influence, Lucas Rigui added, “Having such a strong role model at home has truly accelerated my growth and maturity through various experiences. It`s reassuring to know he also participated in youth championships. Although he didn`t win a medal himself at that level, it`s beneficial to have someone to admire and constantly strive to surpass.”
Beyond the valuable advice, the mere presence of an Olympic gold medal within his home serves as a constant, tangible reminder of his ultimate dream.
“It`s incredible to realize that my ultimate dream is already present in my home, even if it`s not yet my own,” Lucas Rigui remarked. “But knowing it`s there and that it belongs to my dad, whom I love deeply, is truly wonderful.”
Outside the world of volleyball, Lucas Rigui leads a life much like any other teenager. He enjoys playing video games, socializing with friends, and spending time with his girlfriend. Nevertheless, family remains the bedrock of his existence.
“It`s always fantastic to return home, see my parents, and alleviate any homesickness,” he shared.
Every action Lucas Rigui takes is guided by an unwavering, long-held aspiration.
“My dream is to consistently perform at my best in every World Championship, without fluctuations,” Lucas Rigui affirmed. “And one day, to become an Olympic champion, just like my dad, and ultimately, to surpass even him.”
Oliver Wrenwick 
Finley Blackwood