The 2000 Sydney Olympics marked the debut of women's water polo as an Olympic event, with Hungary also claiming the men's gold medal.
Key Facts
- Men's gold medal
- Hungary defeated Russia
- Women's gold medal
- Australia defeated United States
- Nations in men's tournament
- 12
- Nations in women's tournament
- 6
- Total men's matches played
- 48
- Women's event status
- First-ever Olympic women's water polo tournament
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
Australian women's water polo advocates lobbied the IOC extensively for inclusion of a women's tournament, including a high-profile demonstration at an airport during an IOC visit, helping persuade the committee to add the event to the Sydney Games program.
At the 2000 Sydney Olympics, water polo was contested at the Ryde Aquatic Leisure Centre and Sydney Olympic Aquatic Centre. Twelve nations competed in 48 men's matches, with Hungary defeating Russia for gold. Six nations entered the inaugural women's tournament, which Australia won over the United States.
The inclusion of women's water polo established a permanent place for the discipline in the Olympic program. Hungary reclaimed the men's gold after Spain, the 1996 champion, failed to medal, signaling a shift in the competitive landscape of the sport.
Result
at Ryde Aquatic Leisure Centre and Sydney Olympic Aquatic Centre