China has emerged as the frontrunner in the team artistic swimming event at the Paris 2024 Olympics, delivering a high-energy technical routine that earned them a commanding lead over Spain, currently holding the silver medal position. This performance showcases China’s ambition to claim its first-ever gold medal in the sport, capitalizing on the absence of Russia, the reigning champion since 2000. The Russian team’s exclusion from the Games following the invasion of Ukraine has opened up opportunities for other nations to ascend to the top of the podium.
Even before taking the plunge, China’s team captivated the crowd with a theatrical entrance, featuring one swimmer launching herself into the pool from atop her seven teammates. Dressed in eye-catching red-and-black sequined swimsuits, the athletes performed a synchronized routine titled “Speed and Passion” by Wu Mingxuan, perfectly embodying the music’s energy. The routine featured impressive feats, including a swimmer being tossed into the air and performing several twists before landing gracefully in the water, eliciting enthusiastic cheers from the spectators.
The judges awarded China’s routine an impressive 313.55 points, a significant 26-point advantage over Spain in second place. Italy, with their energetic performance inspired by disco dance themes, currently holds the bronze medal position. The final gold medal winner in the team artistic swimming event will be determined through three performances: the technical, free, and acrobatic routines. This Games marks the debut of the acrobatic routine, adding a new dimension to the competition. The upcoming performances will undoubtedly be thrilling to watch, with each team vying for the coveted gold medal.
