Monday, May 26, 2025
The Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Final Four wrapped up in thrilling style in Abu Dhabi on May 25, 2025, reinforcing the UAE capital’s reputation as a premier global hub for elite sporting events. Taking place from May 23 to 25 at the state-of-the-art Etihad Arena, the event attracted a massive international audience and passionate fans from across the region. The spotlight fell on Fenerbahçe Beko, who delivered a commanding performance in the final match, defeating AS Monaco 81–70 to claim the prestigious EuroLeague title.
Fenerbahçe Beko’s victory marks a historic moment for the Turkish basketball club as they add another EuroLeague championship to their collection. The team displayed unwavering determination, tactical brilliance, and superior teamwork throughout the Final Four series. Their exceptional performance culminated in a dominant win over Monaco, who entered the final with strong momentum but struggled to contain Fenerbahçe’s pace and precision.
A Star-Studded Final and a Well-Deserved Victory
During the championship clash, Fenerbahçe Beko showcased a dynamic and meticulously executed offensive game plan that kept AS Monaco on their heels throughout the contest. Spearheaded by standout forward Nigel Hayes-Davis, Fenerbahçe sustained control of the scoreboard in every quarter, consistently outpacing their opponents. Hayes-Davis delivered a stellar performance, sinking critical shots, disrupting Monaco’s rhythm with key defensive plays, and motivating his team through relentless energy on both offense and defense.
His exceptional contribution earned him the title of Most Valuable Player (MVP) for the final. To honor his outstanding display, Turkish Airlines Chief Commercial Officer Ahmet Olmuştur awarded Hayes-Davis a remarkable one million Miles\&Smiles miles. The MVP recognition highlighted not only his scoring prowess but also his ability to lead under pressure and elevate his team’s performance on the grandest stage.
Olympiacos Edges Panathinaikos to Take Third Place
Earlier in the tournament, the battle for third place between Olympiacos and Panathinaikos captivated fans with its intensity and high-scoring pace. Olympiacos edged out their Greek rivals in a nail-biting contest that ended 97–93. The match was a showcase of resilience, with both teams trading leads until Olympiacos pulled away in the closing moments thanks to a decisive three-pointer and solid defense.
The Greek derby added another layer of drama and prestige to the Final Four, reminding fans of the deep-rooted rivalries and passionate spirit that define European basketball.
Khem Birch Wins Flight Time Champion Title
Adding an exciting twist to the tournament, Turkish Airlines honored Fenerbahçe Beko’s Khem Birch with the “Flight Time Champion” award. This unique accolade celebrates athleticism and hang time during the game. Birch was clocked spending an astonishing 1.793 seconds in the air during a single play, earning him 179,300 Miles\&Smiles miles from Turkish Airlines.
This unique accolade reflects Turkish Airlines’ ongoing dedication to merging its aviation expertise with the world of international sports, transforming standout in-game moments into dynamic tributes to athleticism, precision, and airborne brilliance.
Abu Dhabi Shines as a World-Class Sports Hub
The success of the EuroLeague Final Four in Abu Dhabi marked a milestone for the city’s evolving role in international sports. The UAE capital, already renowned for hosting Formula 1, UFC, and world-class golf and tennis tournaments, proved once again that it can deliver high-caliber events with flawless organization and electrifying atmosphere.
Fans from across Europe and the Middle East flocked to the Etihad Arena, creating a vibrant and multicultural environment. The seamless hospitality, excellent infrastructure, and the energy of passionate fans turned the Final Four into a memorable spectacle for attendees and television audiences worldwide.
Turkish Airlines Continues to Elevate Global Basketball
As the official title sponsor of the EuroLeague, Turkish Airlines continues to play a vital role in elevating the profile of European basketball. Through its support of events like the Final Four, the airline bridges continents, cultures, and sports fans with a shared love for basketball. The sponsorship also reinforces Turkish Airlines’ brand as a global connector and champion of excellence in sport.
Looking Ahead
With Fenerbahçe Beko claiming the coveted EuroLeague title, the 2025 Final Four will be remembered as one of the most exciting and well-executed tournaments in recent history. The event not only celebrated basketball at its highest level but also showcased Abu Dhabi’s rising influence in the international sports arena. For Fenerbahçe, the championship marks a moment of glory, and for fans across the world, it serves as an enduring reminder of the power of passion, perseverance, and performance.
