The volleyball world is abuzz with excitement as Tomasz Fornal, Poland’s top player, has been recognized as one of the best in the world. The 27-year-old athlete has had an incredible year, leading Poland to its first Olympic medal in nearly 50 years and defending the Polish Championship title with Jastrzębski Węgiel.
Fornal’s outstanding performance did not go unnoticed by Volleyball World, which ranked him as the second-best player in the world for 2024. The ranking, compiled by a team from Social Media portal Volleyball World, placed Fornal ahead of several Olympic champions, including Earvin Ngapeth, Jean Patry, and Antoine Brizard.
A Mental Leader on and off the Court
Fornal’s success is not solely due to his exceptional skills on the court. He is also an inspirational leader who motivates his teammates to perform at their best. His famous outburst during the Olympic semifinal match against the United States, „Dawać, k*a, nap*y się z nimi, k*a!” („Let’s go, guys, let’s show them what we’re made of!”), has become an iconic moment in Polish sports history.
A Stellar Year for Polish Volleyball
Poland’s volleyball team has had an incredible year, with Fornal and Wilfredo Leon, another Polish player, leading the charge. Leon, who currently plays for Bogdanka LUK Lublin, was ranked ninth in the Volleyball World ranking. The two players have been instrumental in Poland’s success, with Leon winning the Italian Championship and Cup with Sir Safety Perugia.
What Makes Fornal Unique?
So, what sets Fornal apart from other top players in the world? According to Volleyball World, it’s his unique style of play, which makes him an exceptional receiver and a key player in any team. His ability to read the game and make crucial decisions on the court has earned him the respect of his peers and opponents alike.
Polish Volleyball on the Rise
Fornal’s achievement is not just a personal success; it’s also a testament to the growing strength of Polish volleyball. With top players like Fornal and Leon leading the way, Poland is fast becoming a force to be reckoned with in the international volleyball scene.
Did You Know?
* Poland’s last Olympic medal in volleyball was won in 1968, when the team took bronze in Mexico City.
* Tomasz Fornal is the first Polish player to be ranked among the top five in the Volleyball World ranking.
* Fornal’s outburst during the Olympic semifinal match has become an iconic moment in Polish sports history, with many fans calling it the „Fornal’s cry”.
Sources:
* Volleyball World
* Polish Volleyball Federation
* Olympic.org
* sport.pl