Bulgarian national Simeon Nikolov continues to solidify his status as one of the new figures in world volleyball. After Bulgaria's historic silver medal at the 2025 World Championship, the setter made a crucial career choice and joined "Lokomotiv" (Novosibirsk). In an interview for "Championat" with Elena Kovalenko, he reveals his philosophy on the game, life in Russia, and his big goal.

"I came here to play"

Even at the beginning of his professional path, Nikolov chose the difficult route. Instead of seeking a more comfortable environment, he opted for development through competition and responsibility.

"Russia was the only place where I was offered to be a starting setter. I wanted to play, not be a second choice."

Despite interest from Italy, his decision is categorical:

"I didn't want to go to a weaker team. I prefer to fight for medals in Russia."

Even the climate and conditions are not a factor.

"I knew it would be very cold, that there would be a lot of travel, but that doesn't interest me. I came here to play volleyball – that's my priority."

Under pressure – and that's exactly what he likes.

The Russian Super League proves to be a serious challenge not only physically but also mentally.

"The season is very long and tough on the psyche and body. You have to be concentrated in every match."

According to Nikolov, this is precisely the environment where great players are forged. Competition at the top is extremely even, and the battle for the title is completely open.

Lokomotiv's goal is clear:

"We need to be in excellent shape, play better in defense, and reduce errors. If we do that, we have a chance for the title."

A setter with a leader's mentality.

Nikolov is not a typical setter – he scores points, takes responsibility, and directly influences the outcome.

"I like to score points. It helps the team and puts pressure on the opponent."

But his strongest asset is his attitude towards his teammates.

"In 95% of cases, I will go to the attacker and apologize. I will tell him that the next ball will be better."

This is behavior that speaks of maturity and leadership, rarely seen in such a young player.

And when it comes to mentality, Nikolov is extremely clear:

"If you want to be good, you have to be like a dog – both on and off the court."

Unique, but with his own style

With his height of over two meters, he changes perceptions of the setter's role.

"Yes, I am unique because there aren't many players like me. But I'm not doing anything crazy – I just have my own style."

Despite his self-confidence, he remains grounded and focused on development. He names Micah Christenson as the world's No. 1.

Bulgaria's path – from doubt to the final

According to him, the silver medal from the World Championship is not accidental.

"We expected it. We knew that if we played well, we could reach the final."

A key moment was the reaction after the failure in the Nations League.

"We improved our game in a short time. Sometimes you just have to keep fighting."

An interesting detail from the tournament is the strict regime:

"We only spoke to our parents. I didn't want to hear the outside noise."

And the memories remain strong to this day:

"When I watch the matches, I get goosebumps."

Life in Russia – between adaptation and loneliness

Nikolov finds similarities between Russia and Bulgaria, which facilitates his adaptation.

"Russia is similar to Bulgaria, so I got used to it quickly. I like the country."

At the same time, he admits that the beginning was not easy.

"I felt alone because we didn't speak the same language. When we started communicating, everything got better."

The big city also gives him another advantage – anonymity.

"Nobody knows me here. I'm like everyone else."

Family and the inevitable choice

Volleyball is a natural path for him, but not the only possible one.

"If it weren't for volleyball, I would have tried to reach the NBA."

Today, however, he shares the court with his brother – something he describes as "a lot of fun" and long-awaited.

The small details that make a difference

Adaptation also includes small, but telling moments – from the different ball to daily life outside the gym.

"This isn't my favorite ball, but I have to adapt."

And off the court:

"I like borscht, but other soups too. And syrniki."

Without euphoria, looking ahead

Despite the rapid rise, Nikolov refuses to see himself as a star.

"Nothing has changed. I'm the same person."

He also rejects the idea of luck:

"Results come from hard work and will."

And remains focused on the next goal.

"My dream is to play at the Olympic Games"

This is the goal that stands above everything else.

No embellishment. No unnecessary words. Just direction.

And after all he has already shown - it seems a matter of time.