South Africa rejects Olympic water polo bids; Romania (men) and Canada (women) claim the spots
In a surprise development, Swimming South Africa (SSA) has withdrawn its men's and women's water polo teams from the upcoming 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. CEO of SSA Shawn Adriansi L said Daily Maverick That both teams finished at least 12th place at the recent World Aquatics Championships in Doha, Qatar was necessary for both teams to be considered for the trip to the French capital.
In Doha, the South African men's team placed 15th out of 16 teams while the women's team placed 14th. The Romanian men's team, which has not qualified for the Olympics since 2012, and the Canadian women's team – a Tokyo 2020 participant – were selected to replace South Africa. Africa.
Reports indicate that the NFL announced its decision before notifying athletes, many of whom first heard about the decision via social media. Commentators have pointed to the lack of financial support for water polo and general apathy towards the sport in South Africa.
Keanan Hmonsbee In the Daily Maverick It reported that players selected for world champions must pay approximately R20,000 out of their own pockets for flights and accommodation in Doha, as the sport remains largely self-funded.
The men's and women's polo teams from South Africa participated in the Tokyo 2020 Games. Both teams finished last in their group, with the women finishing in 10th place and the men in 12th place.
