At just 17 years old, the Pakistani opposite is demonstrating the significant achievements possible through consistent development and courageous performance on the court.
Published: 25 Jul 2025
Muhammad Yahya`s upbringing wasn`t filled with television shows or endless phone scrolling. Instead, he dedicated his time to volleyball. The sport became an integral part of his daily life, profoundly influencing his understanding and approach to the game.
“Volleyball is my sole focus,” stated the 17-year-old opposite from Pakistan. “Currently, the VNL (Volleyball Nations League) is underway, and I make sure to watch every single match. This serves as my primary source of learning and motivation.”
For Yahya, observing elite players isn`t merely entertainment; it`s a vital part of his education. “You gain so much valuable experience just by watching how top athletes move and how they manage pressure in crucial moments,” he explained.
Now, he is competing on the global stage, determined to demonstrate Pakistan`s rightful place among the world`s volleyball nations.
Standing at 1.96 meters with an impressive vertical leap, Yahya has rapidly emerged as a key player for Pakistan at the FIVB Volleyball Boys’ U19 World Championship. He notably scored 24 points in Pakistan`s dominant victory over the host nation Uzbekistan – a match that demanded both exceptional skill and composure in front of a fervent home crowd.
“I recall playing against them previously, at the U16 level,” he recounted. “They had a large, supportive crowd then too, and they managed to defeat us. So, this time, our strategy was to play intelligently, adhere to our game plan, and secure the win.”
However, statistics alone don`t fully convey the story. Yahya`s ascent symbolizes Pakistan`s growing prominence in youth volleyball, transitioning from regional competitors to serious contenders. Just last year, he played a crucial role in Pakistan securing the gold medal at the CAVA U18 Central Championship, also held in Tashkent, where he was honored as the Most Valuable Player. This remarkable run included a comeback triumph over Iran in the final match.
He continued his success with another medal at the 2024 Asian U18 Championship, where Pakistan earned a bronze, marking their first-ever age-group medal at the continental level. Yahya was instrumental, contributing 21 points in the third-place match against Japan and subsequently being recognized as the Best Opposite of the tournament.
“This is my debut World Championship,” he shared. “During our initial match here, I was still adapting to the new lighting and gymnasium. But afterward, I quickly found my rhythm. I grasped the pace of the game and understood precisely what was required of me for the team.”
Yahya attributes the progress of Pakistani volleyball to meticulous long-term planning. “Three or four years ago, we weren`t performing at this level,” he reflected. “Now, the management is diligently working to develop players across youth, junior, and senior categories. We are constructing formidable teams, and we are immensely proud of this endeavor.”
He also highlighted the significant contributions of coaching and scouting to their achievements. “Our coaches meticulously analyze our opponents and provide us with comprehensive explanations before each match. They equip us with a clear strategy, enabling us to play with unwavering focus.”
His role models include Murad Wazir, a seasoned Pakistani opposite, and Iran`s Amin Esmaeilnezhad, admired for his exceptional elevation and potent left-handed attacks. “I observe how they maintain their composure and effectively finalize points. These are the qualities I aspire to cultivate.”
With his international career still in its early stages, Yahya is well aware that considerable effort lies ahead.
“My ambition is to represent Pakistan at every possible level. I want the world to witness that Pakistan possesses the capability to contend with the very best.”
Against Uzbekistan, he unequivocally demonstrated these traits: composure, self-assurance, and undeniable skill. For a 17-year-old, it might have felt like a monumental breakthrough. Yet, for Yahya, it was simply the progression to the next stage of his journey.
“We`re just beginning,” he asserted. “And we are determined to reach even greater heights.”
Jasper Thornfield 
Oliver Wrenwick