- Alex, congratulations! I remember our interview in the Italian city of Jesi, a year ago, when you couldn't participate in the four-way tournament, as it hadn't been long since your surgery. Then you first learned your opponents in the group and said they were surmountable. Do you still maintain the same?
- Even then I thought the group was surmountable, and now I continue to claim it. But 33% of the work is done, not all of it. We still have things to do. The decisive match against Slovenia is next on Monday.
- Now, already in the role of opposite hitter and after this victory, how do you feel?
- I feel great. Not just because of the role, but overall - I'm happy. For the opposite hitter position - this summer I trained more specifically there and I think it showed that there's progress (laughs). There are still details to iron out, but today I made at least 10-12 points from the back row, which I'm proud of.

- The statistics say 28 points. Did you expect so many?
- Honestly, I don't know exactly how many there were. But yes - they let me play.

- It's interesting that on the other side of the net was Georg Grozer, who has also played against your father.
- I've watched him live many times - even around 2013-2015. I've always admired him: powerful, driven, a natural leader. Today he didn't have his strongest match, but he's almost 41 years old and has already given so much to volleyball. I'm glad I managed to beat him as a younger player.

- What happened in the first game when you were leading by 6 points?
- I didn't receive the float serves well, which should have gone perfectly to the setter. I deeply regretted what was missed, but that gave me even more motivation to give my all. I'm glad it worked out in the end.
- You're fulfilling your dream of playing with your brother at a World Championship...
- Yes, first match with Moni, and what a match, we'll remember it for a lifetime...

- Just one request - next time don't play to 50 points, because we don't have the nerves.
- (laughs) I agree, we'll try our best. We're looking forward to the next match.