US Wins First Olympic Artistic Swimming Medal in Two Decades

SAINT-DENIS, France — In the absence of the dominant Russian team, China clinched gold in the artistic swimming team event at the Paris Olympics on Wednesday night. The United States secured silver, while Spain earned bronze.

Russia had monopolized the gold medal in artistic swimming since the 2000 Sydney Games. With their absence, a new champion emerged.

China amassed an impressive 996.1389 points, outpacing the United States’ score of 914.3421 and Spain’s 900.7319.

This victory was significant for China and marked a milestone for the sport. Artistic swimming, formerly known as synchronized swimming, rebranded to modernize its image. Nevertheless, many athletes still refer to it as “synchro.”

“There is attention to the sport that has never happened before,” stated Adam Andrasko, head of USA Artistic Swimming. “This is an absolutely different sport.”

While some traditions like smiles, makeup, and hair gelatin remain, the sport has evolved past its water ballet origins into a highly athletic display.

Wednesday’s routines showcased the athletes’ power, endurance, and energy. After technical and free routines on Monday and Tuesday, the acrobatic routines brought the spectators to the edge of their seats.

Each team was required to perform seven above-water elements. One swimmer, called the “flier,” was launched two meters above the water surface to execute flips, twists, and dives.

The intricate routines were made even more challenging by the prohibition against touching the bottom of the pool.

This new, more muscular style of performance has injected fresh excitement into the sport. For instance, the Americans’ upside-down Moonwalk routine wowed audiences Tuesday.

Recent changes to rules and judging, implemented about 18 months ago, have transformed the sport into a water-based version of gymnastics with a dramatic flair similar to figure skating. The risks have correspondingly increased.

“People are pleasantly confused about how in the world these women can do what they do,” Andrasko noted.

This Olympics also marked a historic opportunity for male athletes in artistic swimming. However, no men were included in any of the teams. Consideration is being given to adding a mixed duet event for the Los Angeles 2028 Games.

“There was not nearly enough time for nearly enough males to prepare for this chance,” Andrasko explained, alluding to the challenge of generating interest on such short notice.