Iran’s dominant run at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games culminated in their third straight gold medal in men’s sitting volleyball, with their powerhouse server Meisam Ali Pour taking home MVP honours for his standout performances. This triumph marked Iran’s eighth gold in the sport, solidifying their reign as the kings of sitting volleyball.
Ali Pour’s explosive serving and versatile play were crucial throughout the tournament, particularly in the gold medal match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, where his commanding serves tipped the balance in Iran’s favour. In total, Ali Pour delivered 21 aces in the competition, maintaining his reputation as one of the sport’s most feared servers.
Beyond his serving, Ali Pour’s leadership on and off the court propelled Iran to their unprecedented third gold, following triumphs in Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020. The 30-year-old was also the top scorer in key moments, guiding his team through a perfect tournament run.
Though the MVP title was the pinnacle of his individual accolades, Ali Pour was not alone in the spotlight. Two of his teammates, Davoud Alipourian and Morteza Mehrzadselakjani, also made the prestigious Dream Team, recognising their vital roles in Iran’s golden campaign.
Also standing out was Egypt’s Abdelnaby Hassan Ahmed Abdellatif, whose exceptional defence earned him two spots on the Dream Team, as Best Libero and Best Receiver. His relentless play was pivotal in pushing Egypt to their best-ever finish, placing just outside the medal spots.
Bosnia and Herzegovina’s veteran Ermin Jusufovic was named Best Blocker, adding another accolade to his career. His defensive skills were critical in his team’s silver-medal-winning performance.
Paris 2024 Men’s Sitting Volleyball Dream Team
Most Valuable Player: Meisam Ali Pour (Iran)
Best Server: Meisam Ali Pour (Iran)
Best Receiver: Abdelnaby Hassan Ahmed Abdellatif (Egypt)
Best Setter: Davoud Alipourian (Iran)
Best Attacker: Morteza Mehrzadselakjani (Iran)
Best Blocker: Ermin Jusufovic (Bosnia and Herzegovina)
Best Libero: Abdelnaby Hassan Ahmed Abdellatif (Egypt)
Photo: WPV/Sinisa Kanizaj.
