Greece crowned women’s water polo world champion
Greece claimed the gold medal at the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, defeating Hungary 12-9 in the women’s water polo final to secure the world title for the second time in its history.
The national team’s previous triumph came 14 years ago in Shanghai.
This latest win adds to a growing record of success, with 14 medals now earned at European and international competitions.
Coach Haris Pavlidis’ team displayed tactical maturity, defensive strength, and clinical finishing.
The final began with strong defenses on both sides, but Greece broke the deadlock with a penalty scored by Fotini Tricha.
Goalkeeper Ioanna Stamatopoulou delivered a standout performance, repeatedly denying Hungary’s attempts, while the Greek offense capitalized with counterattacks. Goals from Vasso Plevritou and Eleftheria Plevritou helped Greece build a commanding 5-1 lead in the second quarter.
Maintaining their composure, Greece extended their lead to 8-4 by halftime. Hungary attempted a comeback in the third period, closing the gap to 9-6, but Greece’s defense held firm, even under pressure with a player down. Stamatopoulou continued her heroic display, even adding a rare goalkeeper goal, extending the lead to 10-6.
In the final quarter, Hungary struggled to break through, scoring only with a two-player advantage. Greece remained disciplined, sealing the 12-9 win with two goals from Stefania Santa.
On their way to the final, the Greek team edged out Australia 8-7 in the quarter-finals and delivered a commanding 14-10 victory over the US in the semi-finals.
PM, president congratulate women's water polo team for gold in world championships
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and President Constantine Tassoulas congratulated the Greek women's national water polo team on Wednesday for winning gold at the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore.
In a social media post, the premier said, "Greece at the top of the world! Warm congratulations to the National Team of women's polo for achieving gold in the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore! You have filled us with joy and pride!"
President Tassoulas congratulated the team and their coach Charis Pavlidis for the gold, which he said follows up on the gold they won in April at the Women's Water Polo World Cup in Chengdu, China. He also expressed his best wishes for the men's water polo team, which is playing for bronze on Thursday.
"The leading athletes, male and female, of water polo are holding the Greek flag high through their victories. Congratulations to all, you make us proud," the Greek president said.
Messages of congratulations were also coming in for the team's achievement from ministers and party leaders.
