Bartosz Kurek

Polish volleyball player and one of the world's top opposite hitters, known for his powerful attacking and leadership on court with multiple medals.

Poland won the FIVB World Championship in 2014. Bartosz Kurek — standing 2.06 metres, with a powerful spike and reliable serve — was central to that victory and remained the defining figure of Poland's golden generation across the following decade of international competition. His career in the Polish national team accelerated through the domestic PlusLiga, where his attacking output attracted senior team selectors. He made his international debut in the late 2000s and was part of Poland's squad at the 2012 London Olympics, which finished fourth — a marker of the program's rising competitive standing. The 2014 World Championship was the peak, but Kurek continued delivering at the 2015 World Cup (bronze) and into subsequent European Championships, where Poland became consistent medal contenders. At club level, Kurek competed across Europe's premier leagues, including Italy's SuperLega, demonstrating the technical combination of power and precision that made him effective both from the back row and at the net. His serve became a particular weapon, consistent under pressure in the moments that mattered most. His decade-plus of international competition helped establish Poland as a regular presence in major tournament medal rounds. His influence on Poland's younger players and his contribution to the sport's growing domestic audience made him one of the most significant figures in contemporary European volleyball.

Powerful opposite hitter with exceptional attacking ability, strong blocking, and natural leadership qualities

One of Poland's greatest volleyball players and among the world's most dominant opposite hitters of his generation

• FIVB World Championship (2014, 2018)
• FIVB World League (2012)
• European Championship (2009)
• CEV Champions League (2014, 2018)