If you’ve even thought about volleyball in the last five years, you know the name Key Alves. The Brazilian Libero is one of the most popular athletes in the world, and will soon continue her athletic career playing in the States for League One Volleyball. We sat down with Key to discuss her rise to greatness, her idea of a perfect day, and her secrets to success.
Playboy: You started playing volleyball at a very early age. Can you touch on how you became interested in the sport, and your rise to the pros?
Key Alves: I started playing volleyball when I was 14. I moved out of my family home with the support and incentive of my family which has other members in sports. It was a big challenge because I was just a kid but it was the best practice I’ve ever had. I learned and matured in a very short period of time.
I definitely learned how to be a citizen, the sport educated me and taught me how to live in many ways. I would do everything again. Now I am moving to Texas for a new phase of my career, playing for the League One Volleyball, I’m super excited!
Playboy: Who is an athlete that inspires you?
Key: One athlete that inspires me in Brazil’s Volleyball is Camila Brait, and a foreign one is Brenda Castillo.
Playboy: You’re one of the most popular athletes in the world. What do you believe is the secret to your success?
Key: I set the record when I was 22 years old, for the most followed volleyball player in the world. The secret is being yourself, but I believe that my talent in volleyball and my ability with social media helped me in achieving it.
Playboy: Describe your perfect day.
Key: A perfect day for me is one spent with my family going on a trip to the beach.
Playboy: What makes you happiest?
Key: What makes me happy is having peace and money! Because yes, money brings happiness.
Playboy: What food do you reach for when you’re feeling blue?
Key: I love eating churrasco (Brazilian BBQ).
Playboy: Aside from volleyball, what sport do you love?
Key: I love all sports. I’m a big fan of soccer and basketball.