By KRISTEL SATUMBAGA
For Vladimir Nikolov, a retired national team captain, Bulgaria’s dramatic run to the finals of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship was more than just a long-awaited national triumph — it was deeply personal.
After 55 years of heartbreak and near-misses, Bulgaria finally broke through to the championship match. But for Nikolov, the pride ran even deeper: two of the driving forces behind this historic achievement were his own sons. Aleksandar, the explosive opposite hitter, and Simeon, the team’s versatile setter, played pivotal roles in orchestrating Bulgaria’s unforgettable campaign.
At presstime, Bulgaria is battling defending champion Italy for the title, in a storyline billed as “destiny vs. dynasty.”
The Bulgarians are itching for a breakthrough title after settling for silver in the 1970 edition on top of four bronze medals, while the Italians are gunning for a second straight and fifth world title.
For now, simply reaching the championship is a dream come true for the elder Nikolov — not just as a former national team player, but as a proud father.
“I’m proud of Team Bulgaria, not only about my kids,” Nikolov said. “I’m proud because they worked really hard. They dreamed, and they dreamed big. This Final is probably the best thing they can achieve so far.”
He was part of the Bulgarian squad that last reached the podium at the 2006 World Championship in Japan, where they claimed the bronze medal after defeating Serbia and Montenegro.
Nikolov also contributed to Bulgaria’s bronze medal finishes at the 2007 FIVB World Cup and the 2009 European Championship.
But a gold medal — even a silver — always eluded him.
“I’ve had a pretty successful career and I never had a chance to play in the final of the world championship. So it’s very special,” Nikolov said.
