To recount certain journeys, numbers or sports reports alone are not enough. To narrate certain lives, you need heart, soul, and the kind of sensitivity that only those who have experienced hardship, determination, and love for what they do can fully understand. Today, in the column Me la sono cercata, we celebrate Paola Egonu, one of the greatest figures in world volleyball, an athlete who has made history and embodied the strength and resilience of today’s women.
The Path to Glory
Paola is the face of a revived Italian volleyball, and her journey is a tale of triumphs earned through commitment and dedication. Her impact in the Italian league and international competitions has been extraordinary; from her early victories in youth leagues, to titles with Club Italia, and on to memorable performances with the national team, every step of her career has seen her grow as both an athlete and a woman, becoming one of the most feared and respected volleyball players in the world.
It’s not only the Italian press that celebrates her: international sports magazines like Sports Illustrated and L’Équipe have ranked her among the best athletes in the world, highlighting not just her talent, but also her commitment to diversity and inclusion.
A Lesson in Style and Strength
In a context often quick to turn women’s sports into the subject of polemics, there have been those who tried to overshadow Egonu’s successes by raising issues unrelated to sports. However, she has steadfastly upheld the values of merit and competence. We prefer to focus on the talent and strength that have allowed her to win medals and the hearts of fans, rather than giving attention to marginal voices.
Julio Velasco: A Mentor and Reference Point
Julio Velasco, a volleyball legend known for his rigorous approach and sports philosophy, in an interview, clarified that there are no favorites in his team, comparing Paola to icons like Platini, Totti, and Maradona, recognizing in her a rare greatness. His words are not just praise, but a recognition of the extraordinary journey of a player who, for him, embodies the true essence of teamwork.
Paola returned her coach’s esteem by earning her place on the team and proving herself worthy of the trust placed in her, with the same determination she has brought to every challenge. She later expressed her gratitude and deep respect for a man who saw beyond her talent, publicly acknowledging his merit in uniting the group and building a cohesive Italian national team, something that had been missing for some time.
Laika’s Mural: A Symbol of Struggle and Hope
On the night of August 10-11, a celebratory mural appeared in Rome, near the CONI building, created by the artist Laika. This urban masterpiece portrays Paola Egonu in her blue uniform, about to spike a ball that boldly proclaims “Stop Racism,” with the motion of her arms tracing a tricolor streak. Her body, shaped to recall the outline of the Italian boot, symbolizes unity and strength. The artist aimed to honor Paola’s figure and send a powerful message of struggle against discrimination, a call to unite rather than divide.
Beauty, Elegance, and Humility
An outstanding athlete, a woman of extraordinary beauty and elegance, a strong and authentic personality, the compliments for Paola seem endless. Her impeccable style, never ostentatious, reveals an unexpected humility for a celebrity whose fame far exceeds Italian borders. Perhaps the secret lies in her choice to be a person, rather than a mere character.
A Love to Celebrate
Paola is also experiencing a happy moment in her personal life. Her relationship with Leonardo Puliti, a fellow volleyball player, is an example of love and mutual respect. After the Olympic victory, their embrace moved the entire world, sealed with affectionate words exchanged between them. He called her an extraordinary champion and woman; she, holding his hand affectionately, declared that she was living the happiest day of her life.
A Woman Who Went After What She Wanted
Paola Egonu has shown, through all the milestones of her life, that she is a woman who went after what she wanted. With tenacity, talent, and incredible inner strength, she has won medals, respect, and the admiration of millions. For all these reasons, we can confidently affirm that Paola is a model of how, with determination and courage, one can achieve success while remaining authentic
