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Thomas Bach (Reuters)
A groundbreaking step. After a long period of discussions, the International Olympic Committee approved today (Thursday) for men to participate in artistic swimming competitions at the Olympic Games to be held in Paris in 2024.
Artistic swimming has been in the Olympic Games since 1984, but only for women. After the decision of the International Olympic Committee, this will be the first time that men will be eligible to compete in the Olympics. This decision comes seven years after the International Swimming Federation, “FINA”, first approved men to compete in the 2015 World Championships.
Following the announcement, men will now be eligible to compete in the team event which includes eight competitors per team. However, the new rules will allow only two men to compete in the Olympic Games, with ten teams expected to participate in the next Olympics.
Bill Maythe first ever world champion to win the first all-male competition in 2015, who was also one of the leading voices for change said excitedly: “The inclusion of men in Olympic artistic swimming was once considered an impossible dream, this proves that we all need to dream big. The male athletes have persevered and now Through their perseverance and the help and support of so many people, all of these athletes may reach Olympic glory.”
Giorgio Minisinithe 2017 and 2022 mixed duet world champion, who is considered one of the leaders competing in artistic swimming today, said: “This announcement marks a milestone in the history of artistic swimming. The evolution of our sport is happening quickly, and this decision will help us set an example. As one of the most popular sports At the most Olympic Games, we are ready to share the Olympic motto around the world stronger than ever: “Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together”.
President of ‘FINA’, Captain Hussein al-Musallam He said after the decision: “Water sports are universal and men have proven themselves to be excellent artistic swimmers. I look forward to seeing this new dimension of artistic swimming unite with the whole world in Paris. The inclusion of men in artistic swimming is a great credit to all those who have worked for many years to make this happen.” .
