Italy's libero says "Arrivederci" to the national team after the World Championship in Thailand
In a report "7" of "Corriere Della Sera", Monica De Gennaro - wife of coach Daniele Santarelli, confirmed that the global championship in the Asian country will be her last competition with the "Squadra Azzurra" team, according to the renowned volleyball daily celebrating its quarter-century anniversaryvolleyball.it.
The charming libero of Imoco Conegliano - Monica De Gennaro, who turned 38 in January, revealed the expected news, which, unfortunately, saddened volleyball fans. The Italian manages to combine the maturity of a veteran and the spirit of a young girl to be extremely successful on the world stage for many years.
Regarding the 2025 World Championship, which will be held in Thailand between August 22nd and September 7th, Monica states the following: "The Olympic gold medal is around our necks, we are the biggest favorite. It won't be easy to prove ourselves, but we have to try. Wearing the blue jersey is a way to honor our country, for me, this will be the last time... I'm of a certain age."
For her club team Imoco, the radiant libero shares that "it won't be easy to repeat our successes from last season with Conegliano. Do you know what we do when we have a difficult moment on the court? We just look at each other: just one look is enough to understand each other and not feel alone - in a teammate's eyes you find the strength to fight back!"
Monica De Gennaro is on the list of 100 Italian women chosen by Forbes Italia for 2025. A recognition that rewards not only her exceptional career but also her leadership and charisma, qualities that for years have made her a reference point in world volleyball. The American magazine - in its Italian edition - selected 100 women who are protagonists in their respective fields, from business to art, from science to sport. Together with tennis player Jasmine Paolini and middle-distance runner Nadia Battocletti, De Gennaro's presence certifies the value and central role of Italian female athletes on the international stage. With 8 Serie A1 titles, 7 Italian Cups, 9 Italian Supercups, 3 Champions Leagues, 3 Club World Championships, as well as two VNLs, one European Championship and the 2024 Olympic gold, De Gennaro's resume speaks for itself.
Photo:volleyball.it
