Valentina Gottardi is the Most Beautiful Star in Beach Volleyball

VALENTINA GOTTARDI
Country: Italy 
Born: 19 Nov. 2002 
Height: 1.85 m (6 ft 1 in) 

Valentina Gottardi is emerging as one of beach volleyball’s brightest stars, embodying the fast-paced action, fierce competition, and remarkable athleticism that define the sport. She is the number one in our Top 10 Most Beautiful Beach Volleyball Players in the Olympics. But is she on track to become one of the world’s next beach volleyball icons?

Let’s take a closer look at her life, career, and what makes her stand out.

Who Is Valentina Gottardi? Early Life and Background

Valentina Gottardi was born on November 19, 2002, in Modena, Italy, a city known for its rich culture and growing love for sports. Like many Italian kids, Valentina’s introduction to volleyball came at a young age. She honed her skills at the Anderlini Volleyball School in Modena, playing in both regional and national finals. In the 2018/2019 season, she came close to securing a spot in Serie B1.

But beach volleyball was where she found her true passion. The glamour of the sport captured her attention, and despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, she made the switch. “The pandemic forced us to rethink our daily routines,” Valentina says. “But one thing that strengthened during that time was hope. I’ve learned hope is as powerful as ambition.”

Off the court, Valentina is known as a humble and dedicated individual who enjoys reading in her downtime.

What Has Valentina Gottardi Achieved So Far?

Valentina’s career is already packed with impressive accomplishments:

• Olympic Games: 9th place in Paris 2024
• World Championships: 5th place in Rome 2022, 9th place in Tlaxcala 2023
• European Championships: 5th place in Munich 2022, 5th place in Vienna 2023, 2nd place in the Netherlands 2024
• World Cup Final: 9th place in Cagliari 2021

Her consistent performance at the highest levels shows she’s well on her way to becoming a major name in beach volleyball.

Who Is Valentina Gottardi’s Partner in Beach Volleyball?

An essential chapter in Valentina’s rise has been her partnership with Marta Menegatti. The two first teamed up in 2021, combining Marta’s extensive experience with Valentina’s youthful energy. The chemistry between them is undeniable, and it’s no surprise that they’ve had a string of successes in international tournaments.

More than just partners on the sand, Valentina and Marta share a strong bond off the court. Marta, with her three Olympic appearances, has taken on the role of a mentor, guiding Valentina through the challenges of elite competition. “Marta’s incredible—she’s been to three Olympics, and she was about my age during her first,” says Valentina. “I’m trying to soak up everything I can from her, especially how to balance seriousness with staying calm.”

Together, they are proof that teamwork, respect, and shared ambition can lead to success.

How Tall Is Valentina Gottardi?

Standing at 1.85 m (6 ft 1 in), Valentina’s height is a key factor in her dominance on the beach volleyball court. Her towering presence gives her a significant edge in blocking and spiking, allowing her to command the net. She uses her height strategically, combining power with precision to outplay her opponents.

In Italian, the word “altezza” (height) often comes up when fans talk about her, and for good reason: her stature, combined with agility, makes her a formidable force on the sand.

How Does Valentina Balance Sports and Academics?

Valentina isn’t just dominating on the sand, she’s also excelling in the classroom. Currently, she’s pursuing a degree in Management Engineering at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia. She represents a new generation of athletes who manage to balance their athletic careers with higher education.

Valentina credits her studies for sharpening her strategic thinking on the court. “What I learn in class often applies directly to my gameplay,” she explains. The mental edge she gains from her academic background helps her analyze opponents and adjust her strategies mid-game. Her journey proves that with determination and balance, it’s possible to excel in both sport and education.

The University of Modena and Reggio Emilia supports this dual achievement, offering programs that cater to students like Valentina. The university has created a culture where young athletes are encouraged to pursue excellence both academically and athletically.

The Dual Role of Athlete and Model

While Valentina’s athletic talents shine on the volleyball court, her striking looks have caught attention off the court as well. Valentina has embraced opportunities in modeling, seamlessly balancing her life as an athlete with the world of fashion.

Her modeling isn’t just about beauty; it’s about embodying strength, authenticity, and confidence. This dual role as both athlete and model has made her a relatable figure, admired by a wide audience. Whether she’s spiking a volleyball or striking a pose, Valentina is a symbol of grace and power.

Who is Valentina Gottardi’s Boyfriend?

Valentina is in a relationship with fellow beach volleyball player Samuele Cottafava, born in 1998. Together, they form a beach volleyball power couple, both competing at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Samuele, alongside Paolo Nicolai, has been living his dream, training and competing at the highest levels.

Valentina and Samuele’s relationship started over two years ago at the Olympic Training Center in Formia. Despite their busy schedules and long-distance challenges, they support each other. “When Samuele is competing, I watch him on TV. When we’re in the same tournament, we focus on our own games, but I’m always his biggest fan,” Valentina says. Samuele adds, “We share opinions, but we’re careful not to give each other technical advice.”

Their love story highlights the importance of understanding and supporting each other’s goals, making their relationship as strong as their volleyball careers.

Who Are Valentina Gottardi’s Parents?

Behind every great athlete is a solid support system, and Valentina’s family has played a pivotal role in her journey. Although she keeps her family life mostly private, she has spoken about how her parents encouraged her love for sports. Their guidance and encouragement have helped her find balance between the pressures of professional sports, modeling, and her personal life.

Her family’s support has clearly been crucial to her success, allowing her to remain grounded while pursuing her dreams on the global stage.

What Are Some of Valentina’s Most Memorable Quotes?

Valentina Gottardi isn’t just known for her skills, her words offer a glimpse into her mindset and spirit. Here are some of her most inspiring quotes:

• “Beach volleyball is more than a sport for me; it’s a way of life. Every time I step onto the sand, I feel free.”
• “Success isn’t about perfection; it’s about perseverance, about showing up every day and giving your best.”
• “I’ve learned from Marta Menegatti that the path to greatness is built on consistency and passion. She inspires me to keep pushing my limits.”

These quotes perfectly capture Valentina’s dedication, perseverance, and gratitude for the journey she’s on.

For breathtaking shots of Valentina Gottardi, explore our gallery Top 20 Pictures of Beautiful Valentina Gottardi You Can’t Miss.