Water polo originated in Great Britain in the mid-nineteenth century as a recreational water activity in which swimmers passed a football-like ball while treading water, earning it the nickname “football in the water”. Over time, it evolved into a competitive team sport combining elements of swimming, handball, and rugby.

At the Sanya 2026 Games, water polo will be held in the coastal waters off Sanya Bay. Unlike conventional indoor matches, open-water conditions introduce greater challenges, requiring athletes to adapt to tidal currents and wind while maintaining exceptional strength, speed, endurance, and agility.