Hande Baladın’s Emotional Reflection on Paris 2024: ‘This Time It Didn’t Happen

Star volleyball player Hande Baladın from the Sultans of the Net, who finished 4th at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, shared a heartfelt post on social media. As one of the standout players of the Turkish Women’s National Volleyball Team, Hande Baladın reflected on her experiences at Paris 2024 in her post.

Hande Baladın expressed her feelings in her social media post as follows:

“As I was thinking about where to start, I found myself writing down what was in my heart. This summer, as we leave behind all the emotions, victories, hopes, happiness, losses, and disappointments we experienced together, I felt that with each step, we grew a little more and became even stronger. However, this summer was perhaps one where we felt the disappointments a bit more deeply.

Every moment, every day, as I pushed myself harder, I felt like I was living my dream every time I woke up to a new day. Overcoming injuries and obstacles, setting them aside to fight for a goal, and doing our very best was more challenging but also more meaningful and precious to me than ever before.

This time, it didn’t happen. The 2024 Paris Olympics, which we approached with all our hearts, faith, and big dreams, have left us with memories and experiences that we will never forget. I believe that every experience we gain on this journey will make us even stronger.

Participating in the Olympics for the second time, reliving my childhood dream once again, has been an indescribable joy and honor. But this dream is just a step. The passion for reaching the peak will always remain within me. We will continue to wear this jersey with more strength and faith than ever before.

Regardless of the outcome, we want to thank everyone who supported us. Together, we are even stronger.”