The three-day World Aquatics Artistic Swimming World Cup Xi'an 2026, which concluded on May 3 at the Xi'an Olympic Sports Center, treated audiences to "ballet in the water" and left athletes from around the world with unforgettable memories of Xi'an.

This marks the second consecutive year the city has partnered with the event, following the 2025 World Aquatics Artistic Swimming World Cup Super-Final last June, which drew over 100 athletes from 16 countries. This year, the third leg of the competition in Xi'an attracted more than 150 competitors from 21 countries and regions.

The Chinese team performs during the World Aquatics Artistic Swimming World Cup Xi'an 2026. [Photo/Xi'an news network]

The Chinese artistic swimming team claimed five golds, three silvers, and one bronze, surpassing its previous performances in the solo, mixed, and team events from last year.

Faced with new competition rules, the Chinese team took the initiative to pursue innovation and transformation, gaining a head start in adapting to the revised regulations. Tempered by the Xi'an leg of the competition, the team has taken solid strides forward on its new journey toward the Olympic Games.

The Chinese team wins gold in the team technical routine. [Photo/Xi'an news network]

Zhang Xiaohuan, the Chinese team's head coach, said that coming to Xi'an felt just like returning home: "The event has been highly praised by athletes from all participating countries, which makes me very proud."

Athletes from around the world spoke highly of Xi'an, with Ranjuo Tomblin, winner of the men's solo technical routine from the United Kingdom, saying that competing in such a high-standard venue was truly a delightful experience.

Yao Yao, a representative of Xi'an Olympic Sports Center, said, "Our team boasts extensive experience in event services and support, with 150 staff members across all aspects of the competition. Fifteen days before the event opened, we ensured the water temperature and quality met the relevant requirements set by World Aquatics. In addition, hardware facilities, including lighting, audio, screens, and scoring systems, were inspected and maintained in advance to ensure optimal performance throughout the competition."

The organizing committee also arranged intangible cultural heritage exhibitions at the accommodation venues for athletes, coaches, and technical officials, showcasing the charm of traditional Shaanxi culture.

A traditional opera performance at the event's opening ceremony. [Photo/Xi'an news network]

Lisa Schott, president of the World Aquatics Artistic Swimming Technical Committee, said Xi'an has demonstrated an extremely high standard in event organization, adding, "I have an excellent impression of this competition, and I am very fond of this city."