Italy clinched their first-ever Olympic gold medal in women’s volleyball at the Paris 2024 Games, thanks to a stellar performance by Paola Egonu. The 25-year-old opposite was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player after leading Italy through an undefeated run, including a decisive victory over the United States in the gold medal match where she scored 22 points.
Egonu ended the tournament as the second-highest scorer with 110 points, including 95 kills, seven blocks, and one ace. Her impressive form follows her recent MVP award at the Volleyball Nations League 2024, where she helped Italy secure the title.
In addition to Egonu, Italy was well-represented in the Paris 2024 Dream Team, which also featured players from the United States and Brazil. The Dream Team selections were:
- Most Valuable Player: Paola Egonu (Italy)
- Best Setter: Alessia Orro (Italy)
- Best Opposite: Paola Egonu (Italy)
- Best Outside Hitters: Myriam Sylla (Italy) and Gabriela ‘Gabi’ Guimarães (Brazil)
- Best Middle Blockers: Anna Danesi (Italy) and Chiaka Ogbogu (USA)
- Best Libero: Monica De Gennaro (Italy)