The players give it their all on the field. [Photo by Lin Yuyang for chinadaily.com.cn]

The Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour Challenge Xiamen 2025 is being held from May 14 to 18 at Yefengzhai Beach along Island Ring Boulevard in Siming district, Xiamen. 

As the only international challenge tournament in China this year, the main draw has expanded from 48 to 64 teams. Over 110 teams from around the world, comprising at least 400 athletes, along with domestic and international referees and FIVB and Chinese Volleyball Association officials, participated in the event. Spanish beach volleyball cheerleaders also performed, adding energy and excitement to the competition.

The 2025 Xiamen Challenge has undergone significant upgrades since last year, featuring a larger scale, extended schedule, and increased prize money. The total prize pool has been increased from $200,000 to $300,000, marking a notable elevation in the tournament's prestige.

To accommodate more athletes, the competition has expanded to include 16 additional teams (men's and women's combined), significantly raising the overall level of play with the participation of more elite players. 

Furthermore, the duration of the event has been extended from four to five days to better showcase athletes' competitive skills and the tournament's excitement, providing players with more rest and preparation time. 

Some match days now run until 8 pm, offering fans more opportunities to enjoy intense beach volleyball action.

As a supporting event, the Xiamen Beach Sports Festival is being held from May 10 to 18. Centered around the volleyball competition, this festival features a diverse range of cultural and sports activities, including a creative beach market, sports experiences, camping, and live music performances.

Spanish beach volleyball cheerleaders. [Photo by Lin Yuyang for chinadaily.com.cn]