Without unnecessary fuss, but with a clear sign of professionalism and commitment, Aleksandar Nikolov arrived in Bulgaria to participate in the "Team of Champions" initiative, organized by Nexo, immediately after his club team engagement and the match against Padua in the Italian championship.
For the young Bulgarian volleyball player, this is further proof that he is already moving to the rhythm of big sports – court, airplane, public engagement, without pause and without compromising his responsibilities.
Leadership presence off the court
Nikolov's presence in the "Team of Champions" is not formal. He is among the few active Bulgarian volleyball players who are currently genuinely competing and establishing themselves at the highest international level, and this adds extra weight to his messages to young people.
"In this team, we show that with discipline, perseverance, and character, you can go far – no matter where you start from," Nikolov stated during the presentation of the initiative.
Words that sound convincing precisely because they come from an athlete who proves them on the court every week in one of the strongest championships in the world.
The context: the match with Padua and the controversy surrounding the "Poria" case
Aleksandar Nikolov's arrival in Bulgaria coincided with the tense public and media backdrop surrounding the "Poria" scandal, which erupted before the match against Padua. The situation sparked serious discussions in Italian volleyball circles.
It is important to emphasize, however, that Nikolov maintained full concentration on his professional commitments, demonstrating maturity and composure, and publicly apologized for the words he uttered that caused the scandal – qualities that distinguish great athletes even at an early age.
Aleksandar Nikolov among the "Team of Champions": who are the others alongside him
Aleksandar Nikolov's participation in the "Team of Champions" initiative places him in the company of the elite of Bulgarian sports. For the first time in Bulgaria, Olympic, world, and European medalists from various disciplines gather in a common project with a clear goal – to show the path from Bulgaria to the highest world level.
The composition of the "Team of Champions"
Aleksandar Nikolov– volleyball
One of the best volleyball players in the world, a starter in one of the strongest championships in Europe, leader of the Bulgarian national team.Nikola Tsolov– motorsport (Formula 2)
The most successful young Bulgarian driver, who has broken into formula racing and carries serious expectations for future participation in Formula 1.Karlos Nasar– weightlifting
Olympic, world, and European champion, a dominant figure in his category and one of the brightest names in world weightlifting.Ivet Goranova- karate
Olympic champion from Tokyo, a symbol of discipline and perseverance in martial arts.Nikolay Rusev- sport climbing
National champion and one of the faces of modern Olympic sports in Bulgaria.Aleksandra Totkova- sport climbing
European champion, representative of the new generation of Bulgarian climbers.Darina Tsvetkova- kickboxing
World champion, established on the international stage in one of the most competitive categories.
For Bulgarian volleyball, such figures are invaluable - active, recognizable, performing at the highest level and ready to take on the role of an example. Nikolov is no longer just a "talent" but an active factor who knows how to combine the game, responsibility, and public presence.
photo: NEXO
