FILIPINO fans once again proved why the country is one of volleyball’s most passionate hosts, turning out in full force to cheer on the world’s best as action in the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship went full blast on Saturday.
Among those who felt the warmth of the crowd were the teams from the United States and Japan, which kick-started their campaigns with the support of passionate Pinoy fans at the SM Mall of Asia Arena and the Smart Araneta Coliseum, respectively.
That outpouring of support was embraced by USA captain Micah Christenson, who tried to accommodate every Filipino supporter at the fan zone moments after their 25-20, 25-21, 25-14 sweep of Colombia.
The star setter posed for autographs and selfies with Filipino fans in their second straight tournament in Manila, following a memorable Volleyball Nations League stint last year.
“It’s always so special for us and it's almost like we don't expect any extra support. But then, I've been here two years in a row now, and it's just been so much support, overwhelming support in the best way possible,” Christenson said.
“We, as a team, love coming here, representing Team USA and feeling all the love from the Filipino fans. But also like to go back home and tell people how amazing our experience was in the Philippines. And so it's been a real honor and pleasure for us.”
Christenson also shared a moment with former Philippine women’s national volleyball team star Alyssa Valdez, one of the World Championship ambassadors.
“We met each other last year during the VNL. We talked a little bit, got to meet not only her but a handful of the Filipino women's national team and a little bit of the men's team as well. And so just kind of stayed in contact over social media and whatnot,” said the American captain.
“She's been super kind in terms of like if there's anything you guys need or whatever, like we're here to help embody it. It feels like the Filipino culture just being so kind and generous. And so we're going to do our best to reciprocate that.”
Ran Takahashi and Japan suffered a stunning straight-set 19-25, 23-25, 19-25 defeat at the hands of Türkiye, but that hardly dampened their spirit as he expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support of Filipino fans who continued to cheer them throughout the match.
“Yeah, yeah. It’s so special for me. I’m so very, very happy to be here and play here,” said Takahashi when asked if he’s getting used to what feels like a homecourt advantage when playing in the Philippines.
The loss only fueled Takahashi’s determination, as he vowed to bounce back stronger in their next match against Canada after being held to just four points in their debut loss to the Turkish spikers.
“They gave us energy. We always draw power from them. I’m so happy to be here, and I want to win in front of them. For sure, in the next game, I want to win in front of them,” said the 24-year-old outside hitter.
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