Artistic swimming is making a splash at the Paris 2024 Olympics, featuring a modernized scoring system and the defending champions ready to compete.
This captivating sport, a blend of aquatic artistry and musical performance, has a storied history. Though it was once inclusive of male athletes, it has primarily been female-focused for many years. However, men will make their Olympic return in Paris, competing in the team event.
What is Artistic Swimming?
Artistic swimming started gaining popularity in the early 1900s in the U.S. through various demonstrations. Initially, it had male competitors, but over time, it became more associated with female athletes, particularly in synchronized swimming.
When did it become an Olympic sport?
Artistic swimming made its official Olympic debut at the 1984 Games in Los Angeles. As part of the 2024 Paris Olympics, men will compete for the first time in the team event, alongside a maximum of two male athletes in each group of eight.
The competition includes two main formats: duet and team events. Judging focuses on difficulty, synchronization, execution, and creativity, with impressive athletic skills on display as athletes perform breathtaking moves above and below the water.
The updated scoring approach now categorizes routines and sets levels of difficulty for each performance.
Why the Name Change?
In 2017, the International Swimming Federation (FINA) transitioned from “synchronized swimming” to “artistic swimming” to reflect the sport’s evolution. CEO Adam Andrasko pointed out that the new name showcases the blend of athleticism and artistic expression, moving away from the traditional image of water ballet.
How to Watch Artistic Swimming at the Olympics?
Artistic swimming events will air from August 5 to August 10 on E! and NBC, with NBC providing live coverage and E! showing replays. Streaming options are available through Peacock and Fubo, which offers a free trial for new users.
The first event, Team Technical Routine, kicks off at 1:30 p.m. on the opening day.
Who is on Team USA?
The USA’s artistic swimming team features notable athletes like Anita Alvarez and Daniella Ramirez, who will be competing in the duet. The team, including eight seasoned Olympians and one alternate, has worked diligently to reach this stage. Andrasko emphasized the collective effort behind their success, citing contributions from everyone involved.
Notably, Alvarez will compete in her third Olympic Games, showcasing her exceptional talent and perseverance. Team USA will face formidable opponents, including Wang Liuyi and Wang Qianyi, the highly skilled twins from China, who are soaring as favorites for gold in Paris.