Photos: Global stars shine at Artistic Swimming World League in Dubai

Swimmers on the opening day of the 2nd Artistic Swimming World League, at Hamdan Sports Complex. The prestigious championship, the largest international event in artistic swimming, is being hosted at Hamdan Sports Complex. The event brings together numerous clubs and national teams worldwide, further cementing Dubai’s reputation as a global sports hub.

This event is part of the 58 international and local sports events held annually at the complex, including 28 Olympic and non-Olympic sports, as well as community events and training camps for clubs, national teams, and Olympic champions.

Artistic Swimming (formerly known as synchronized swimming) is a water sport that combines elements of swimming, dance, and gymnastics. It involves individuals or teams performing synchronized routines in the water, accompanied by music.

Athletes demonstrate strength, flexibility, and endurance as they execute choreographed movements, including lifts, flips, and acrobatic stunts while maintaining precise timing with the music and other swimmers.

Artistic swimming is featured in major competitions, including the Olympic Games, the World Championships, and regional competitions like the Artistic Swimming World League.

Among the top athletes who train at Hamdan Sports Complex are South African swimmer Chad Le Clos, Japanese swimmer Rie Kanto, Danish badminton champion Viktor Axelsen, French diving star Gary Hunt, Russian rhythmic swimmer Anastazia Akhipovskaya, and Olympic champion Anastasia Davydova, who also serves as a coach for her team. Anastasia, who has made Dubai her home, emphasized the importance of the city's role in global sports and its ability to host such significant events successfully.

Anastasia Davydova, who participated in the championship as a coach, stated: “I am thrilled to be part of this championship and delighted to see so many participants, especially local Emirati talents. Hosting international championships like this is crucial for the development of sports and expanding its reach. Dubai has proven itself capable of hosting such grand events with excellence."

Daria Kalkina, a key organizer, also shared her enthusiasm: “The participation from clubs and national teams around the world has been incredible. Dubai is a favorite destination for athletes, and we are proud of the significant number of Emirati female athletes who are joining the international stage.

This year’s event is dedicated to 'Fair Play, Unity in the World of Sports, and Inspiring Emirati Female Athletes to Compete in International Competitions.'"

New countries such as New Zealand, Brazil, America, Singapore, Italy, Algeria, Georgia, and Uzbekistan joined the competition for the first time, alongside returning teams from Russia, Egypt, Kazakhstan, Croatia, and Azerbaijan.