Montenegrin water polo players made their way to Los Angeles yesterday to continue their preparations for the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris, where Draško Brguljan will not be donning the “shark” cap.

The legendary athlete, who was set to compete in his fifth Olympic Games and break the record for Montenegrin athletes, is likely bidding farewell to the national team after a grueling and lengthy season with Primorac.

While some anticipated this decision, others may have been taken by surprise; the player, who will turn 40 in December, feels confident in his choice.

“I simply cannot fathom training all summer to be ready for the Olympics,” Brguljan expressed. “I had an exceptionally demanding club season. Though I could potentially compete in Paris, I believe it’s the right decision at my age not to occupy a space on the team if I’m unsure I can commit fully to the preparations,” Brguljan shared with “Vijesti”.

During his time with Primorac, Brguljan secured the title of national champion, a milestone he had awaited since 2008, and contributed to the team’s return to the regional Premier League. Throughout the season, he participated in two significant competitions: the European Championship in Croatia and the World Championship in Doha.

“I poured my heart into Primorac, and alongside that, I took part in both the European Championship and World Cup. The season wrapped up about twenty days ago… There was a possibility for me to rejoin the national team after a short break, but after much deliberation with Vladimir Gojković, who was incredibly understanding, I concluded it was best not to be part of the squad,” Brguljan indicated.

The sense of regret lingers…

“Naturally, I feel regret, but my decision was made after thorough consideration. While it’s true that this would have been my fifth time at the Games, I want some of the younger players to take part, especially those for whom this is their Olympic debut and who need this competition in Paris for their careers,” Brguljan concluded.

Gojković has taken 18 players to the United States: Dejan Lazović, Kanstantin Averka, Aljoša Mačić, Vlad Popadić, Stefan Vidović, Đur Radović, Vladan Spaić, Dušan Matković, Vasilij Radović, Petr Tešanović, Marko Mršić, Jovan Vujović, Darko Đurović, Bogdan Đurđić, Martin Gardašević, Danil Radović, Andrija Korać, and Dimitrija Obradović.

According to the Water Polo Association, Miroslav Perković and Dušan Banićević have yet to begin their preparations due to club commitments, while the extended list of Olympic candidates includes Luka Murišić, Uroš Vučurović, Đorđije Stanojević, Ilija Radović, and Lazar Andrić.

Montenegro is set to engage in two matches in Los Angeles against the Americans, who are rivals in their Olympic group. The tournament in Paris kicks off on July 28, with Croatia, Italy, Greece, and Romania also in the same group.

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