Alexandri Sisters Shine Again: Vasiliki Claims Gold in Madeira!

Funchal, Portugal - The remarkable achievements of the Alexandri sisters continue to shine brightly in the world of synchronized swimming. As of June 6, 2025, Vasiliki Alexandri captured gold in the Solo Technical Routine at the European Championships held in Madeira. This triumph adds to the accolades of her sisters, Anna-Maria and Eirini-Marina Alexandri, who also enjoyed success at the same event.

Vasiliki, now 27, solidified her place in the sport by earning her third gold medal across European championships, following her impressive victories in Belgrade the previous year. She showcased her skill and artistry under the tutelage of her new coach, Japanese expert Takako Nakajima, and managed to outstrip her competitors by an impressive margin of 8.1483 points. Both Spain’s Iris Tio Casas and Germany’s Klara Bleyer fell short in this intense contest.

A Twin Triumph

Anna-Maria and Eirini-Marina Alexandri also brought home gold in the Technical Routine to complement Vasiliki’s win. They scored a remarkable 301.8800 points, establishing a clear lead over the Spanish duo of Iris Tio and Meritxell Ferre, who finished with 282.1017 points. This marked the twins‘ return to the podium after a bittersweet fourth-place finish at the Paris Olympics just ten months ago.

Competing for the first time under Nakajima’s guidance, the 25-year-old twins didn’t hold back, performing a newly introduced lift that exemplified their daring spirit. They are currently focusing exclusively on the Technical Routine, opting out of the Free Routine, including upcoming competitions such as the World Championships in Singapore this July. This decision allows them to refine their performance and potentially build on their success in future events.

The Broader Landscape of the Sport

Synchronized swimming, also recognized as artistic swimming, has evolved drastically over the years. Governed by World Aquatics, this sport has been a staple in the Summer Olympics since 1984, captivating audiences with its intricate routines performed to music. The judging criteria are stringent, emphasizing execution, artistic impression, and difficulty level, which are essential for competitors aiming for the podium.

Traditionally a female-dominated event, changes are on the horizon, with mixed-gender duet competitions introduced in 2015 and a gradual inclusion of male competitors in team events by the 2024 Olympics. The aesthetic beauty intertwined with athleticism makes synchronized swimming not just a sport but a spectacular art form that continues to engage and inspire.

The achievements of the Alexandri sisters enhance the rich legacy of this Swiss-inspired sport, encouraging the next generation to lace up their suits and hit the water. Udo Landbauer, the Deputy Governor of Lower Austria, celebrated their success, emphasizing the importance of such achievements for sports in the region.

As we revel in the glory of these remarkable athletes, it’s clear that they exemplify the spirit of determination and excellence that defines competitive sports. The future looks bright for the Alexandri sisters and their fellow competitors, as they continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in synchronized swimming.

For more on their story, check out the coverage from 5min and Kurier, and explore the history of the sport on Wikipedia.