The 2025 Women's Volleyball World Championship in Thailand offered an abundance of sensations and dramatic outcomes, but the final promises to go down in history not only for its sporting dimensions but also for its human ones. Because on both sides of the net will stand… a family.

Libero against coach

On one side is Monica De Gennaro – Italy's legendary libero, with 19 seasons behind her in the national team. She has already announced that the 2025 World Championship will be her last tournament with "Squadra Azzurra". And what more fitting end to a brilliant career than a World Championship final?

On the other side, however, will be her husband – Daniele Santarelli, the head coach of Turkey. Under his leadership, the Turkish women made a historic breakthrough, reaching their first final in a world competition.

A family with different colors

De Gennaro and Santarelli's marriage dates back to 2017, and their love has always been intertwined with volleyball. In recent years, the two have repeatedly been a symbol of stability and mutual support – she as one of the best liberos in the world, he as a coach with international recognition.
Now, however, the family idyll will be transferred to an arena where there can only be one winner. At club level, both defend the colors of the Italian champion and winner of the Champions League trophy for the 2024/25 season – Prosecco Doc Imoco Conegliano.

The final – more than sport

Regardless of who wins the gold – Italy or Turkey – it will certainly remain in the family. But it's clear that neither of them will allow sentimentality: De Gennaro will dive for every saved ball in defense, and Santarelli will demand maximum concentration and aggression from his players.

The final will be a true "marital showdown" – a battle in which the personal and professional intertwine in a way never before seen in the history of volleyball.

After the match, De Gennaro shared with the organizers' camera:
"This is what I wanted – to reach a final with Daniele. But tomorrow is Italy against Turkey. I just hope we play a good match."

A particularly touching moment for De Gennaro is her husband's admission:

"It was incredible to hear that today he wore a blue jersey under his clothes to support Italy. I understand him – he is the only Italian coach here. I hoped he would reach the final, and that I would play against him. I am happy it happened."
photo: Nikolay Varadinov and screenshot