Zehra Güneş: Winning a second straight European title was my dream

Zehra Güneş said she could barely remember the European Championship final after Turkey's women's national volleyball team claimed the title. The joy, she said, came after a four- or five-month journey in which every player contributed and accepted responsibility.

“Winning the championship for the second time in a row was my dream,” Güneş said. “The gold medal was my biggest dream. I am very happy that we achieved it.” She praised Italy as a strong opponent, but said Turkey also showed the quality of its own team.

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Winning the championship for the second time in a row was my dream.

Güneş described the victory as the result of enormous effort and sacrifice. She said she felt proud of her teammates and called the achievement a great honor for the squad.

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The gold medal was my biggest dream. I am very happy that we achieved it.

The middle blocker also emphasized the effect of the supporters in the stands. She said children and women looked at the players with shining eyes as the team arrived at the match, creating an unforgettable feeling. “Without them, it would have been very difficult,” she said, thanking fans for the atmosphere and their support.

She acknowledged the pressure and stress surrounding championship matches, but said the team embraced the demands that came with its preparation. Güneş added that the players had not yet fully absorbed the significance of securing an Olympic quota. The World Championship and Olympic goals now await the team, and she said she would continue working toward them.

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Without them, it would have been very difficult.