Historic Double Swedish Success as Beach Volleyball Teams Reach World Championship Finals

Two Swedish beach volleyball teams have made a stunning advance to the semifinals—and in one case, the final—of the 2025 Beach Volleyball World Championship held in Adelaide, marking an unprecedented achievement for the country traditionally better known for winter sports like skiing.

The experienced duo of David Åhman and Jonatan Hellvig, Swedish Olympic champions, overcame early group stage challenges to storm into the semifinals. After finishing third in their group, they gained momentum with three consecutive 2-0 knockout victories, including a narrow quarterfinal win over Brazil’s Evandro and Arthur Lanci (22-20, 22-20). They face the winner of the Germany-Czech Republic semifinal for a spot in the final.

Meanwhile, the youngest pair in the tournament, Jacob Hölting Nilsson (20) and Elmer Andersson (19), are making headlines in their first World Championship by reaching the final following a powerful semifinal victory against the French team Teo Rotar and Arnaud Gauthier-Rat in straight sets (21-18, 21-17). Andersson expressed joy, stating, “It’s incredibly nice, we will do everything to win the final.” Their impressive defensive skills and resilience were lauded by beach volleyball expert Mattias Magnusson.

This duo previously battled setbacks, seeking revenge over the French team after a group-stage loss. Hölting Nilsson candidly acknowledged some dissatisfaction with their performance despite success but remains excited by their rapid rise. Both teams have assured themselves of at least a bronze medal, an extraordinary feat for Swedish beach volleyball.

A potential all-Swedish final looms, a historic first that could see the veterans Åhman/Hellvig meet the emerging talents Hölting Nilsson/Andersson. Such a matchup would underscore Sweden’s growing dominance and innovation in the sport, highlighted by Åhman and Hellvig’s "Swedish jumpset" playing style.

With the semifinals set for November 22, anticipation is high among fans and players alike as these two Swedish pairs aim to secure gold and make history on the world stage.