The free agent who was called the biggest catch, Pyo Seung-joo (33), suddenly announced her retirement from professional sports after the breakdown of negotiations.
Pyo Seung-joo announced her retirement through her social media account on the 24th.
Pyo Seung-joo stated, 'After thinking several times about how to say this, I leave this message.' She added, 'I am now going to conclude my 15 years as a professional player. My sports career may not have been very glamorous, but I have worked harder than anyone to show a 모습 that I would not be ashamed of to everyone who has supported me, including my fans.'
According to the results of the 2025 Korea Volleyball Federation (KOVO) women's free agent contract released on the evening of the 24th, Group A free agent Pyo Seung-joo did not sign a new contract by the deadline of 6 p.m. on the 24th. She remains the only unsigned player out of 14 free agent candidates, making her ineligible to play in the 2025-2026 season.
Pyo Seung-joo shared the background of her retirement, saying, 'I did not receive accurate offers from other teams, and I could not find a point of agreement with my original team (Jeonggwanjang). I made this decision after deep consideration.'
Pyo Seung-joo graduated from Hanil Electronics High School and was selected first overall by Korea Transportation Corporation in the 2010-2011 V-League women's draft. She subsequently spent 15 seasons (424 games, 1,482 sets) with teams including GS Caltex, IBK Industrial Bank, and Jeonggwanjang. She also contributed to the national team and led Jeonggwanjang in the championship finals during the 2024-2025 season but shocked the volleyball community by declaring her retirement.
Pyo Seung-joo said, 'There were many tough moments during my career, but I feel I was able to overcome them thanks to my beloved family, my husband, and my dear sisters, friends, and younger siblings. This season I advanced to the championship finals for the first time, and I fought with more passion than anyone else, without regrets. I think that moment was truly the happiest time as a player. I sincerely thank the fans who were with me during that moment and everyone who supported me.'
She added, 'Regardless of how well I performed, the support and love you all sent me always overflowed and felt overwhelming, which was a great strength and comfort to me. I truly appreciate it, and in the future, when life gets tough, I will think of it again. I hope you will warmly watch over me as I live outside of the court. Thank you sincerely for everything.'
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