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Simeon Nikolov to Volleyweek: "Playing with my brother at a World Championship is a dream come true, but I want more!"

Николай Варадинов

Николай Варадинов

September 14, 2025 at 04:39

Simeon Nikolov to Volleyweek: "Playing with my brother at a World Championship is a dream come true, but I want more!"

- Moni, congratulations on your first win. How do you feel?
- We feel good - we're motivated, although a little exhausted at the moment. We'll recover soon. We're very happy that we managed to beat Germany 3:0 - this is important for both the ranking and for getting out of the group. I think we deservedly won and are now looking forward to the next match.

- In the first game there was a lot of drama - you were leading by 6 points, but you had to decide it in the longest game of the World Championship so far.
- That's right. There were quite a few mistakes, but also many positives. The most important thing is that in the end we managed to win the game. I hope there won't be any more such long games, but I'm happy that we took it. Of course, this also affects our physical condition.

- How will you prepare for the next match, which will also be the most decisive?
- In a few minutes, we will start preparing for it - sleep, nutrition, recovery. We expect it to be a very difficult match, probably even more difficult than today's. We go with the hope of qualifying.

- What is it like to play against someone who also played against your father - Georg Grozer?
- Yes, I thought about it - he is twice my age, even a little more. I have immense respect for him. You have to be a truly exceptional player to win for so long at this level - it doesn't happen often. I remember what my father looked like at 40, so I respect his achievements even more. I wish him all the best.

- You and your brother haven't played much as a diagonal opposite to the setter so far...
- That's right. We haven't had many opportunities, but after today's match, I think we've gained enough experience together. This is a new element that Blengini introduced into the squad, and so far I think it's working well.

- One of your dreams has already come true - to play with your brother at a World Championship. What is the next one?
- Now I dream of winning a medal together and achieving as many victories as possible.