Diving, a mesmerizing fusion of grace and precision, has remained a captivating spectacle at the Olympic Games since its introduction at the 1904 St. Louis Games. Evolving from its roots in gymnastics, the discipline has grown to encompass both platform and springboard events.
China, the United States, and Russia stand out as notable powerhouses in Olympic Diving, consistently producing extraordinary divers. Icons like Fu Mingxia and Guo Jingjing from China, Greg Louganis from the United States, and Dmitry Sautin from Russia have left an indelible imprint on the sport's storied history.
In recent decades, China has asserted its dominance in Olympic Diving, clinching numerous gold, silver, and bronze medals. The precision and artistry displayed in the intricate dives, somersaults, and twists by Chinese divers have set an unparalleled standard of excellence in the discipline.
Wu Minxia, hailing from China, holds the distinction of being the diver with the most Olympic medals. Wu's illustrious career, adorned with multiple golds in both synchronized and individual events, cements her legacy as one of the foremost divers in Olympic history.
The Summer Olympics 2028 in Los Angeles will feature Olympic Diving at the iconic 1932 Pool in Exposition Park, marking a historic return to the venue that hosted diving events during the 1932 Olympic Games. This venue, now known as the LA84 Foundation/John C. Argue Swim Stadium, is set to provide a world-class setting for divers from around the globe.
Venue: 1932 Pool in Exposition Park
Located in the heart of Los Angeles, Exposition Park is a cultural and historical landmark. The 1932 Pool, originally constructed for the 1932 Olympics, has undergone renovations to meet modern standards while preserving its historic significance. Managed by the City’s Department of Recreation and Parks, the venue continues to serve the community and will now host Olympic Diving events, offering a unique blend of tradition and contemporary excellence.
Olympic Diving Events at LA28
Olympic Diving at LA28 will feature both Men’s and Women’s competitions in:
10-meter Platform: Divers perform acrobatic dives from a 10-meter-high platform, executing complex maneuvers before entering the water.
3-meter Springboard: Athletes spring from a flexible board, showcasing precision and agility in their dives.
Synchronized Diving: Pairs of divers perform identical dives simultaneously, with judges scoring based on synchronization, execution, and degree of difficulty.
These events will be held in the first week of the Games, aligning with the traditional schedule that positions diving as a highlight of the Olympic program.
Hosting Olympic Diving at the 1932 Pool underscores LA28’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement. By utilizing an existing venue, the Games minimize environmental impact and honor the rich history of Los Angeles' Olympic legacy. The LA84 Foundation/John C. Argue Swim Stadium will continue to serve as a public resource, inspiring future generations of athletes and fostering a love for aquatic sports.