TEHRAN - Iranian volleyball star Saber Kazemi, who died in Tehran at age 26 after suffering brain death on Wednesday, was laid to rest on Friday in his hometown Aqqala, Golestan Province.

Known for his powerful spikes and humble personality, Kazemi was more than a player—he was a symbol of determination, discipline, and quiet strength.

Born in 1998, he represented Iran’s national team in several competitions. Kazemi helped Iran win two gold medals at the 2018 and 2022 Asian Games and was a member of the national team at the 2020 Olympic Games.

Kazemi, a member of the Qatari club Al Rayyan, was in a coma for 20 days following a traumatic brain injury in Doha.