On a sunlit evening in Somabay, Egypt, 16-year-old Chinese athlete Guo Muye made history by claiming the men’s solo technical gold medal at the 2024 World Aquatics Artistic Swimming World Cup. The rising star’s performance, themed 'Wizard,' dazzled judges and spectators alike, earning him a combined score of 224.5450 points—a 14-point improvement from his fourth-place finish at the season’s first World Cup stop in France.
Guo, a three-time world junior champion, has long been hailed as a prodigy in a sport historically dominated by women. His Egypt victory marks China’s growing influence in artistic swimming, with Guo outpacing competitors nearly twice his age. National teammate Ji Heyong secured silver, underscoring China’s stronghold in men’s events since their recent inclusion in global competitions.
'This is just the beginning for him,' said national coach Zhang Xiaohuan, hinting at Guo’s potential to redefine the sport. The teenager’s blend of athleticism and artistry has drawn comparisons to Olympic legends, with fans and analysts speculating about his prospects at Paris 2024.
Guo’s triumph arrives as World Aquatics pushes to expand men’s participation in artistic swimming globally. With upcoming stops in China and Hungary, the sport’s evolving landscape presents new opportunities for athletes and investors eyeing Asia’s booming sports market.
