In the dynamic world of international volleyball, where young talents emerge with fleeting brilliance, Mahmoud Abdelbaki, affectionately known as “Houda,” stands out as a player whose trajectory is anything but transient. Two years ago, he was a promising junior, finding his feet on the global stage. Today, he is the unequivocal powerhouse for Egypt at the FIVB Men`s U21 World Championship, a transformation so swift and impactful it borders on the extraordinary.
Mahmoud Abdelbaki “Houda” in action, showcasing his powerful game.
The Unveiling of a Force: From U19 Learner to U21 Leader
The narrative of Houda`s ascent is best told through numbers, a language universally understood in sports. At the FIVB Boys` U19 World Championship in 2023, the outside hitter from Cairo tallied a respectable 48 points throughout the entire tournament, with a personal best of 17 against a formidable Argentinian squad. These were, by his own account, his “learning years”—a crucial phase where potential often grapples with pressure.
Fast forward just twenty-four months to the Men`s U21 World Championship in 2025, and the statistics paint a drastically different picture. Houda exploded onto the scene, amassing an astonishing 102 points in pool play alone. This isn`t merely an improvement; it`s a near-tripling of his previous tournament total, culminating in a jaw-dropping 31-point masterclass against none other than the United States. It seems his learning years have concluded with a rather emphatic graduation speech.
“In this championship I am doing much better than the last World Championship. This is a good tournament, and we are happy to be here,” Houda remarked with a modesty that belies his on-court dominance.
Houda celebrates with a teammate after a crucial point against the United States.
Carrying the Hopes of a Nation: Egypt`s Resurgence
Beyond personal glory, Houda carries the weight of national pride, a responsibility he embraces with discernible zeal. For years, Egyptian volleyball faced a relative absence from the consistent upper echelons of global youth tournaments. Houda and his teammates are determined to challenge that narrative, proving that African powerhouses are not to be overlooked.
“People say they haven’t seen Egypt for years, but we are still a very strong team in Africa,” he stated, a clear message to those who might underestimate the continent`s talent pool. His performances serve as a compelling argument for Egypt`s rightful place on the international volleyball map.
A Blueprint for Success: Hard Work and European Aspirations
Houda isn`t just a player; he`s a mentor in the making, already offering sage advice to the next generation. His philosophy is refreshingly straightforward, rooted in the fundamentals of dedication and faith:
“Work hard on yourself, study, train well, and try volleyball. God will be with you.”
This ethos is visibly woven into his own career path. His move to Zamalek, one of Egypt`s most prestigious and ambitious clubs, provided him with a fertile ground for growth, offering top-tier domestic competition and exposure to professional standards. Yet, despite his success at home, Houda`s gaze extends far beyond the Nile. His ambitions are unmistakably European, targeting the most competitive leagues as the ultimate crucible for his talent. “I want to work on myself and hope of playing in Italy or France one day,” he shared, articulating a dream common among elite athletes who seek to test their mettle against the world`s best.
Houda rises for a powerful spike against Türkiye during the tournament.
Learning from the Elite: Idols and Inspiration
Even as a burgeoning star, Houda remains a student of the game, drawing inspiration from those who have already scaled the peaks of international volleyball. His list of idols reads like a roster of modern legends: TJ DeFalco of the USA, known for his explosive power and technical prowess; Wilfredo Leon of Poland, arguably one of the greatest outside hitters of all time; and Italy`s rising sensation, Alessandro Michieletto, whose youthful brilliance mirrors Houda`s own trajectory. These are not merely names; they are benchmarks, fueling his relentless pursuit of excellence.
Mahmoud Abdelbaki “Houda” has moved beyond the “promising talent” label with astonishing speed. His journey from the U19 championships to becoming Egypt`s leading scorer at the U21 level is a testament to his dedication, skill, and unyielding ambition. As he continues to dominate on court and sets his sights on the elite European leagues, one thing is clear: the world of volleyball is witnessing the rise of a truly special player, and his story is only just beginning.
