Qatar’s top beach volleyball stars Cherif Younousse and Ahmed Tijan delivered a stunning performance to win the gold medal at the 24th AVC Beach Tour Samila Open. The event, held at the scenic Samila Beach in Songkhla, Thailand, featured some of the best teams from across Asia and Oceania, but it was the Qatari duo who stole the spotlight.
In the championship match
Cherif and Ahmed faced the strong New Zealand pair Bradley Fuller and Ben O’Dea. Despite the pressure of a high-stakes final, the Qatari team showed calm determination and great skill. They clinched the match in straight sets with scores of 21-16 and 25-23. The final set was especially intense, with the New Zealanders fighting hard, but Cherif and Ahmed held their nerve and sealed the victory.
This gold medal win continues their impressive form in recent years. Cherif and Ahmed remained undefeated throughout the tournament. They didn’t drop a single set, beating every team with authority and confidence. Their campaign started with a clean sweep in the group stage, defeating teams from Hong Kong, Kazakhstan, and Iran. In the knockout rounds, they beat Indonesia in the quarterfinals, Australia in the semifinals, and finally, New Zealand in the final.
The Samila Open is one of Asia’s oldest and most prestigious beach volleyball events. This year’s competition brought together top teams from across the continent and beyond. The tournament is not just about medals—it’s a test of endurance, teamwork, and strategy on the hot sands under the blazing sun. For Cherif and Ahmed, this was not only a tournament to win but also a stage to show why they are among the best beach volleyball pairs in the world.
Cherif Younousse and Ahmed Tijan have been playing together since 2018, and their chemistry on the court is clear. They communicate well, support each other under pressure, and complement each other’s strengths. Their teamwork has brought them international recognition and a long list of achievements. One of their most notable accomplishments was winning the bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, making history for Qatar.
Since then, the duo has continued to shine on the international stage. They won gold medals at both the 2018 and 2023 Asian Games and regularly compete against the world’s best on the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour. Their powerful serves, sharp defense, and quick reactions make them a tough team to beat. As of now, they are ranked among the top teams globally and are seen as serious contenders in every competition they enter.
Their victory
Thailand is a strong start to the 2025 beach volleyball season. It not only adds another trophy to their collection but also boosts their confidence ahead of bigger challenges, including international tours and possible qualification events for the next Olympic Games in Paris 2024. For Qatar, it’s another proud sporting moment, showing the country’s growing strength in sports beyond football and athletics.
This latest win also sends a strong message to their rivals across Asia. Cherif and Ahmed are not just winning—they’re dominating. Their ability to stay focused, even in high-pressure situations, and their consistent performance makes them role models for young athletes across the region. They show that hard work, teamwork, and determination can lead to success, even on the world stage.
The Samila Open also gave fans a chance to enjoy top-level beach volleyball in a beautiful location. Thousands of spectators lined the beachfront court, cheering loudly for every spike, block, and rally. The event celebrated not just sport, but also unity, culture, and community spirit. For many fans, watching Cherif and Ahmed play was a highlight—they brought energy, excitement, and inspiration to the beach.
After the win
Cherif and Ahmed expressed their happiness and appreciation. They thanked their coaches, support staff, and fans back home in Qatar. They said the gold medal was a result of hard training, belief in each other, and never giving up. They also mentioned how much they enjoyed playing in Thailand and praised the organizers for hosting a great event.
As they return to Qatar with gold medals around their necks, Cherif and Ahmed will now focus on preparing for their next international tournaments. They aim to keep improving and pushing their limits. With the Paris Olympics just a year away, their journey continues with eyes on even bigger prizes.
For now, their gold at the AVC Beach Tour is a reminder of their world-class talent and commitment. Qatar can celebrate once again, as its golden duo brings pride and honor to the nation. Fans, fellow athletes, and aspiring players will no doubt look up to Cherif and Ahmed as true champions—on the sand and beyond.
