Serbia rewards women's volleyball team after European Championship bronze

The Serbian government has announced financial rewards of 10,000 euros each for the members and coach of the women's national volleyball team following their bronze medal achievement at the European Championship.

Following the tournament, the team was received by President Aleksandar Vučić in Belgrade. The official reception has sparked significant social media controversy, with viral videos capturing the players' facial expressions and body language during the President's speech. Many observers interpreted their demeanor as showing discomfort or reluctance to attend. Team coach Zoran Terzić addressed the backlash, suggesting that the players' expressions were likely driven by a fear of public or political judgment rather than personal conviction.

Separately, the tournament has been marked by diplomatic tension in the sports arena. Mehmet Akif Üstündağ, President of the Turkish Volleyball Federation, drew criticism for questioning the origins of Serbian players Tijana Bošković and Hena Kurtagić, a move seen by many as an attempt to undermine their legitimacy following Turkey's victory over Serbia in the semifinals.