2024 Olympics: What to know — and who to watch — during the water polo competition in Paris
The 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris are just around the corner, and the water polo competition is shaping up to be a thrilling spectacle. With a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, the water polo events promise intense action and exciting storylines. Prepare yourself for a week of nail-biting matches as athletes from around the globe battle for Olympic glory.
Athletes to watch
The 2024 Olympics will feature a constellation of water polo stars, each with their own unique skill set and determination to bring home the gold. Here are a handful of athletes to keep your eyes on as they take the pool:
- Maggie Steffens from the United States is a water polo legend and the highest scoring woman in Olympic history with 56 goals.
- Alvaro Granados from Spain is a rising star in men’s water polo, instrumental in leading his team to their first-ever European Championship title.
- Simone van de Kraats from the Netherlands is an exciting young player known for her speed, agility, and scoring ability, making her a threat to any opponent.
- Marko Bijac from Croatia is considered one of the best goalkeepers in the world, having won silver at the 2016 Olympics and named best goalkeeper at the recent European Championship.
Maggie Steffens, United States:
Maggie Steffens is a legend in the water polo world. The American attacker is the highest scoring woman in Olympic history with an impressive 56 goals. While she faced some injuries at the Tokyo Olympics, she still played a pivotal role in leading the U.S. to an unprecedented third consecutive gold medal. Steffens is a force to be reckoned with, and her experience and determination will be crucial for the United States as they aim for a fourth consecutive Olympic title.
Alvaro Granados, Spain:
Alvaro Granados is a rising star in the men’s water polo scene. The 25-year-old Spaniard was instrumental in leading his team to a dramatic 11-10 victory over Croatia in the European Championship, securing Spain’s first-ever championship title. Granados’s ability to score crucial goals and lead his team to victory will be crucial for Spain’s success in Paris.
Simone van de Kraats, Netherlands:
Simone van de Kraats is one of the most exciting young players in the world. The 23-year-old Dutch athlete had a breakout performance at the Tokyo Olympics, scoring a tournament-high 28 goals in her first Olympic appearance. She was also a key player in the Netherlands’ world championship victory last year, their biggest title since their 2008 Olympic gold medal. Van de Kraats’s speed, agility, and scoring ability make her a threat to any opponent.
Marko Bijac, Croatia:
Marko Bijac is one of the best goalkeepers in the world. The Croatian veteran won silver at the 2016 Olympics and was named best goalkeeper at the recent European Championship. His ability to make crucial saves and shut down opposing offenses will be crucial for Croatia’s hopes of claiming a second Olympic gold medal.
Francesco di Fulvio, Italy:
Francesco di Fulvio is a seasoned veteran with a knack for clutch performances. The 30-year-old Italian was named MVP at the recent World Championships, demonstrating his leadership and ability to perform under pressure. Di Fulvio’s experience and scoring ability will be crucial for Italy’s hopes of success in Paris.
Bea Ortiz, Spain:
Bea Ortiz is a young and talented Spanish player who is quickly making a name for herself. She played a key role in Spain’s runner-up finish at the Tokyo Games and scored four crucial goals when Spain defeated the U.S. in a World Cup qualifier. Ortiz’s speed, agility, and scoring ability make her a threat to any opponent, and she will be a player to watch in Paris.
Storylines to follow
The water polo competition at the 2024 Olympics will be filled with intriguing storylines and intense rivalries. Here are a few of the most compelling narratives to follow:
Steffens and the U.S. go for history:
The United States is on a mission to make history. No team, men’s or women’s, has ever won four consecutive water polo titles at the Olympics. The American team will have to overcome some challenges, such as their lack of depth in the center position. However, they have a formidable group of attackers and a phenomenal goalkeeper in Ashleigh Johnson. If they can maintain their strong team chemistry and play to their potential, they have the opportunity to solidify their place as the dominant force in women’s water polo.
Hungary seeks a return to glory:
Hungary is the most successful nation in men’s water polo history, with nine gold medals. However, their bronze medal in Tokyo was their first Olympic medal since their run of three consecutive Olympic titles from 2000 to 2008. Led by Gergo Zalanki, Hungary is determined to return to the top of the podium. Their path to gold will be challenging, but their experience and tradition will make them a formidable competitor.
Croatia eyes a second gold medal:
Croatia is the reigning men’s world champion, having defeated Italy in a thrilling final in February. They are looking to claim their second Olympic gold medal after their victory in London. Their team is filled with talented players, including the legendary goalkeeper Marko Bijac. If Croatia can maintain their momentum and play with their trademark intensity, they will be a strong contender for the gold medal.
Key dates
The water polo competition will be held at the Aquatics Centre and the Paris La Défense Arena, providing a dynamic backdrop for the thrilling matches. Here’s a quick overview of the key dates:
- Preliminary round: July 27 – August 6, alternating days for men and women.
- Women’s final: August 10, Paris La Défense Arena.
- Men’s final: August 11, Paris La Défense Arena.
Reigning Champions
Before the 2024 Olympics begin, let’s take a look at the reigning champions in both the men’s and women’s water polo competition:
- Women: United States
- Men: Serbia
The water polo competition at the 2024 Olympics will be a captivating display of athleticism, skill, and determination. With a mix of experienced veterans and rising stars, the competition promises intense action and exciting storylines. Be sure to tune in and witness these talented athletes as they compete for Olympic glory.
