Players compete fiercely in a volleyball match. [Photo/The Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour Challenge Xiamen 2025]

The Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour Challenge Xiamen 2025, currently kicked off in the Siming district of Xiamen city, East China's Fujian province, on May 14.

The ongoing event features with 400 athletes and teams from 33 countries, including China, the United States and Brazil, with 14 Chinese teams in the mix.

This international A-level contest is among the top three international events under the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB), following only the Olympics and the World Championships.

It's running to May 18 at Yefengzhai Beach on Island Ring Boulevard, offering a $250,000 prize pool. With 1,000 seats available, locals and tourists are invited to enjoy the games.

Exciting matches unfolded on the first day as male and female teams took turns to stage take-off, spike, block and roll, and the athletes sweating on the beach while showing off their superb skills.

Beyond this competition, the venue is hosting the upcoming 2025 Xiamen Beach Sports Carnival, featuring a creative beach market, sports activities, camping, concerts and more.