Aleksandar Nikolov cemented his status as one of the brightest stars of Bulgarian sports after being chosen as "Athlete No. 1 of Sofia for 2025". The volleyball player, who brought immense joy to the country with the silver medal from the World Championship in the Philippines, topped the prestigious ranking with an impressive 36 points.

Nikolov, who also became the best scorer of the championship, surpassed serious competitors from winter sports – alpine skier Albert Popov (21 pts.) and snowboarder Tervel Zamfirov (16 pts.).

The awards ceremony was held today at the Sports Museum at the "Vasil Levski" National Stadium, in the presence of sports figures and guests. The bronze Olympic medalist from Milan – Cortina, Tervel Zamfirov, also attended the awards.

Aleksandar Nikolov's award was accepted by his mother Maya Nikolova, as well as by one of the presidents of VC Levski Sofia, David Davidov.

Ranking "Athlete No. 1 of Sofia" for 2025

Alexander Nikolov's first place is a logical recognition of his outstanding year in 2025. His silver medal from the World Championship and his leading role as a scorer once again place volleyball at the center of Sofia and Bulgaria's sporting pride.

An interesting highlight in the ranking is the strong presence of winter sports – Popov and Zamfirov prove that Bulgaria continues to produce elite athletes on snow. At the same time, the names of Stiliana Nikolova and Nikola Tsolov demonstrate the breadth of talent in Bulgarian sport.

Particular attention should also be paid to the fact that Malena and Tervel Zamfirovi are the new faces of the Sofia – European Capital of Sport 2026 initiative, which indicates the capital's ambition to continue developing sport as a national priority.

However, Alexander Nikolov remains the great hero – a symbol of the new generation of Bulgarian volleyball that once again makes the nation dream. 🏐💛