Team, Open

Russia was an overwhelming favorite, having won the event at every Olympics since 2000, and having won all but three gold medals at the last four World Championships. They did not disappoint winning the final by over a three point margin on China, which won the silver medal. Spain had been second at Beijing but placed third in London.

The Russian team included Nataliya Ishchenko and Svetlana Romashina, who had already won a gold medal in the duet in London, giving them two golds in synchro in 2012. Anastasiya Davydova was also on the team, giving her a record fifth gold medal in synchronized swimming. Davydova, Mariya Gromova, and Elvira Khasyanova won their third consecutive gold medals in the team event. Russia’s gold medal in this event swept the synchro swimming golds in London, and gave them their eighth gold medal in the sport in the 21st century.