Italy defeated the defending champions, the US, to win the gold medal in women’s volleyball at the Paris Olympics 2024. The Italian team secured their victory in straight sets: 25-18, 25-20, 25-17. This win marks Italy's first Olympic gold medal in volleyball, as their previous best finish was fifth place.
The final match took place at the South Paris Arena, where the crowd cheered enthusiastically, waving Italian and US flags. Italy, having lost only one set throughout the tournament, played with impressive skill and determination. The US team, which won their first Olympic gold in Tokyo, was unable to defend their title this time.
Italy took control early in the match and never looked back. They overcame a brief challenge in the third set when the US led 6-5. Italy scored the next seven points to establish a 12-6 lead. Despite a late push from the Americans, Italy finished strong with a 6-1 run, ending the match with a decisive point scored by Paola Egonu, who contributed 22 points in the final.
The victory was celebrated with great joy by the Italian team. Players, including veteran Monica De Gennaro, were seen hugging and tossing each other in celebration. The US team’s silver finish adds to their record as the most successful country in Olympic volleyball, now with seven medals.
US coach Karch Kiraly made strategic changes after a loss to China during the group stages, bringing in new players Avery Skinner and Kathryn Plummer. Despite these adjustments and a strong performance earlier in the tournament, the US could not overcome the formidable Italian squad in the final.
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