Steven van de Velde, born on August 8, 1994, in The Hague, Netherlands, has made his mark as one of Dutch beach volleyball’s most promising athletes. Standing at 6’6″, he combines power, agility, and tactical awareness, attributes that helped him qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Despite his athletic accomplishments, van de Velde’s journey has been complex, intersecting with legal challenges that have influenced both his career and public perception. As of 2025, he remains a polarizing figure in sports — admired for skill but scrutinized for past actions.
Quick Facts of Steven van de Velde
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Steven van de Velde |
| Date of Birth | August 8, 1994 |
| Age | 31 |
| Place of Birth | The Hague, Netherlands |
| Nationality | Dutch |
| Height | 6’6″ (1.99 m) |
| Family | Sports-oriented; brother-in-law Kevin Behrens (footballer) |
| Spouse | Kim van de Velde (née Behrens) |
| Children | One child |
| Net Worth | $200,000–$500,000 |
| Major Achievements | Paris 2024 Olympics; European Championships bronze 2024; multiple FIVB victories |
| Controversy | 2016 conviction for sexual offenses; served 13 months |
Early Life: Roots in The Hague
Growing up in The Hague, van de Velde was immersed in a sports-centric environment. From a young age, he played on local courts, learning the fundamentals of beach volleyball while developing the physicality and resilience that would define his style. Family influence played a role as well; his brother-in-law, Kevin Behrens, is a professional footballer, and the household valued competition and discipline.
These formative years taught van de Velde both the thrill and the rigor of sport. The North Sea’s winds and Dutch sands became a training ground where every spike, serve, and dive prepared him for international competition.
Professional Beginnings: From National Titles to International Courts
At just 17, van de Velde won the Under-20 Dutch National Championships in 2011, marking his transition from youth talent to professional contender. Early partnerships with players like Jeffery van Wijk and Michiel van Dorsten helped him gain experience in European tournaments, including the 2015 European Games.
He eventually focused on beach volleyball full-time, aligning with the FIVB World Tour’s demanding schedule. In 2018, teaming with Dirk Boehlé, he secured his first podium finish at the Blooming Beach Aalsmeer event, signaling his arrival on the professional circuit.
Olympic Success and Career Highlights
Van de Velde’s career reached a peak in 2024 when he and partner Matthew Immers qualified for the Paris Olympics. Shortly after, they won bronze at the 2024 European Beach Volleyball Championships. Throughout his career, he has accumulated over $197,000 in FIVB earnings, proving himself a formidable competitor on the sand.
He remains respected for his adaptability and technical skill, switching seamlessly between partners and refining his game despite interruptions in his career.
Controversies and Public Scrutiny
In 2016, van de Velde was convicted for sexual offenses committed as a teenager. He served 13 months in the Netherlands, and the case continues to affect his eligibility and public perception. For instance, Australian authorities denied him a visa to compete at the 2025 World Championships, sparking debates about rehabilitation, second chances, and athlete accountability.
This legal history has overshadowed some of his achievements, reminding fans and sports officials that personal conduct can profoundly influence professional opportunities.
Personal Life and Family
Van de Velde married Kim van de Velde (née Behrens), a former volleyball player and police trainee, in 2021. Together, they have one child. His family provides stability amid public scrutiny, offering a counterbalance to the pressures of professional competition.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
Steven van de Velde’s net worth is estimated between $200,000 and $500,000, primarily derived from FIVB tournament winnings and minor endorsements. He lives modestly in The Hague, prioritizing training, family, and travel over luxury. His routine reflects the discipline required in elite beach volleyball, with early mornings, rigorous practice, and recovery sessions shaping his day.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Van de Velde’s career illustrates both talent and controversy. Athletically, he has elevated Dutch beach volleyball on European and Olympic stages. Socially, his story fuels discussions on ethics, rehabilitation, and eligibility in sports.
While his achievements demonstrate resilience and skill, his legacy remains intertwined with the broader conversation about accountability in professional athletics.
Looking Ahead
As van de Velde continues competing, his story serves as a complex case study in sport, law, and redemption. Fans and officials alike will watch closely as he navigates future tournaments, balancing athletic excellence with the ethical expectations of the international sports community.
