Ukrainian Sensation in Düsseldorf: Maryna Hladun and Tetiana Lazarenko – 2025 European Beach Volleyball Champions! 🏆🇺🇦

In a tense final match, our athletes overcame the previously undefeated French duo Vieira / Chamereau with a score of 2:1 (21–23, 21–18, 16–14). After a dramatic first set loss—despite having six set points—the Ukrainians showed true grit and mounted a strong comeback. Precise serving, teamwork, and incredible composure in the deciding tiebreak earned them the win with a narrow two-point lead – 16:14.

“We can’t believe it! This is crazy. We’ve been through so much over the last three years – physically and mentally. We fought through it and we won!” — Maryna Hladun, European Champion

Hladun and Lazarenko confidently worked their way through the tournament bracket:

Group Stage (Group G): Win over Ull / Schürholz (Germany) — 2:0 Win over Placet / Richard (France) — 2:1

Round of 16: Win over Bock / Lippmann (Germany) — 2:1 (16–21, 21–19, 15–10)

Quarterfinal: Win over Konink / Schoon (Netherlands) — 2:0 (21–18, 22–20)

Semifinal: Win over Alvarez / Moreno (Spain) — 2:1 (15–21, 21–16, 15–11)

Win over Vieira / Chamereau (France) — 2:1 (21–23, 21–18, 16–14)

This victory holds special significance amidst the ongoing war. The athletes trained under air raid sirens and stayed focused despite concerns for their families and country. As Igor Molotok, President of the Ukrainian Beach Volleyball Federation, noted:

“This is not only a victory for the athletes. It’s a victory of spirit, resilience, and belief in Ukraine. Thanks to everyone who stood by them — coaches, families, fans.”

Maryna Hladun and Tetiana Lazarenko are the new faces of European beach volleyball. Their triumph is an inspiration to all Ukrainians — proof that even in the most challenging times, the impossible is still achievable.

We are proud of you! Ukraine — European Champions! 💙💛