Ekaterina Antropova enjoyed a massive 2025 season, winning almost everything with Italy and Savino Del Bene Scandicci and demonstrating to the world that she is one of the strongest opposite hitters around. 

Her rare combination of height, power, and tactical intelligence has made her a nightmare for opposing defenses across both club and international competitions.

Antropova clinched a historical double for the Italian National team: the FIVB Women's Volleyball World Championship and the FIVB Women's Volleyball Nations League (VNL). 

She delivered world-class performances in both tournaments, notably coming off the bench to score a staggering 28 points in the World Championship semi-final against Brazil. 

Her ability to thrive under pressure proved instrumental in Italy’s dominant run to the top of the world rankings.

With her club team, Savino Del Bene Scandicci, she reached the demanding CEV Champions League final and, more importantly, won the FIVB Women's Club World Championship, defeating the previously dominant Imoco Conegliano in a historic final. 

She was rightfully elected as both the Most Valuable Player (MVP) and Best Opposite Hitter of the Club World Championship after leading the tournament with 99 total points. This victory was especially sweet for Scandicci, as it marked the first world title in the club’s history and established them as a global powerhouse.

Finally, her statistics in the Italian Serie A reflect her dominance, as she remains the league's seond top scorer this season with 316 points as of December. Beyond her scoring prowess, she was recently honored as the MVP of the Month for November, further cementing her status as the most impactful player in Italy today.

For these outstanding performances and significant wins, Ekaterina Antropova is the Women's Volleyball Blog Player of the Year. Her relentless consistency and trophy-laden year make her the undisputed choice for this prestigious honor.

Photos: Volleyball World / Serie A