This summer in Fukuoka marked a significant shift in the sports world. After eight years of dominance, the US women’s water polo team has been dethroned – the Netherlands claimed the crown for the second time in history.

In a thrilling final, the “Tulips” triumphed over Spain with a score of 17:16, clinching the title for the first time since their victory in Perth in 1991.

Italy secured third place, the very team that halted the USA’s formidable streak at the world championships, which had persisted since Kazan in 2015, during the quarterfinals.

Brigit Sleking and Simon van de Krats were instrumental to the Netherlands’ victory, each scoring four goals in the grand final.

Despite a standout performance from Judith Forca, who netted six goals, Spain, the previous champions before the era of American dominance, fell short.

While one era of American dominance has ended, another continues, as the country’s water polo athletes have secured victories in the last three Olympic Games.

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