Historic Double Semifinal for Swedish Beach Volleyball Teams at World Championship

Two Swedish beach volleyball teams have remarkably advanced to the semifinals of the 2025 World Championship, marking a historic achievement for Sweden in the sport. David Åhman and Jonatan Hellvig secured their semifinal berth following a hard-fought quarterfinal victory over the Brazilian pair Evandro and Arthur Lanci, winning both sets 22–20. This victory was particularly dramatic, as the second set included a crucial comeback from Hellvig, who scored critical points and executed two decisive blocks to clinch the win. Åhman, reflecting on Sweden's reputation as a winter sports nation, humorously expressed disbelief at the feat, saying, "Usually in Sweden we only ski."

Meanwhile, the younger Swedish duo Jacob Hölting Nilsson, 20, and Elmer Andersson, 19, also advanced impressively to the semifinals after defeating the American team of Chaim Schalk and James Shaw in straight sets, 21–18 and 22–20. This duo is making their World Championship debut and have already made a significant impact.

Both Swedish pairs are now assured of at least one medal with the potential for an unprecedented all-Swedish final. Åhman and Hellvig, Olympic gold medalists from Paris 2024 and 2023 World Championship silver medalists, will face the winners of a Germany versus Czech Republic matchup in the semifinals. Hölting Nilsson and Andersson are set to challenge the French team, Teo Rotar and Arnaud Gauthier-Rat, possibly for a rematch from the group stage.

Commentator Mattias Magnusson highlighted the uniqueness and skill of the Swedish teams, noting their distinctive style of play. This milestone elevates Swedish beach volleyball on a global stage and promises strong future prospects for the sport in Sweden.