The Fistball competition at the 2025 World Games in Chengdu reached a dramatic highlight on Day 3, as top national teams battled through semifinal and classification rounds across both men’s and women’s tournaments. With medals now within reach, the day was marked by enormous heat, relentless intensity, tactical brilliance, and world-class performances.
Women’s Tournament:
Women’s Semifinals: Brazil and Switzerland Book Their Spots in the Final
Brazil demonstrated exceptional control and attacking consistency in their semifinal victory over Austria. Both teams exchanged powerful rallies and sharp defensive plays, but Brazil’s experience and efficiency under pressure carried them to a 3-1 win and a place in the gold medal match.
In the second semifinal, Switzerland overcame Germany in a thrilling five-set contest. In one of the most competitive matches of the tournament, Switzerland maintained composure through several momentum swings to edge past their opponents and earn a chance to compete for gold. The reign World Games Champion Germany surprisingly miss out of the grand final.
Women’s Quarterfinal Recap
Earlier in the day, Austria secured their semifinal berth by withstanding a determined Chilean side. The match was closely contested, with Austria’s consistent execution making the difference in the decisive moments.
Germany also advanced from the quarterfinals with a commanding 3–0 victory over New Zealand. The German side displayed precise coordination and control throughout, giving their opponents little opportunity to gain a foothold.
Women’s Classification Matches
In the consolation rounds, Chile defeated the United States in a 3–1 encounter to advance to the 5th-place match. Meanwhile, New Zealand prevailed over Argentina in another spirited match, setting up a rematch against Chile for fifth place.
Men’s Tournament:
Men’s Semifinals: Brazil and Germany Set for Championship Clash
In the men’s bracket, Brazil produced a clinical performance to eliminate Switzerland in straight sets. While Switzerland challenged the south american champions in the early stages, Brazil’s tactical depth and physical dominance proved decisive as they pulled away to secure victory.
Germany advanced to the final following an emotional 3–1 win over Austria. The match was marked by high-intensity exchanges and strategic substitutions from the German side, who managed to outmaneuver a resilient Austrian team and seal their place in the gold medal match.
Men’s Quarterfinal Recap
Switzerland reached the semifinals with a 3–0 victory over Chile. The match featured a particularly intense final set, which Switzerland edged 15–14 to close out the sweep. Austria also progressed with a strong performance against Italy, winning in straight sets and showcasing dominance at the net.
Men’s Classification Matches
Chile secured their place in the 5th-place match by overcoming New Zealand 3–1 in a dynamic contest, while Italy earned their spot with a confident 3–0 victory over Argentina.
Looking Ahead to Day 4 – August 13: Medal Matches
With the final day of Fistball competition set to determine the medal standings, teams will return to the court for one last push toward the podium. The level of play, the intensity of the rivalries, and the passion on display have captivated fans throughout the World Games in Chengdu. Wednesday promises to be a historic finale to an unforgettable tournament.
Gold Medal Matches:
15:30 Women’s Final: Brazil vs. Switzerland
17:00 Men’s Final: Brazil vs. Germany
Bronze Medal Matches:
11:30 Women: Germany vs. Austria
