Paltrinieri wins gold in the 10km open water swimming as Mens water polo book semi-final spot

Paltrinieri won his fourth medal of the Championships with gold in the 10km open water

BUDAPEST - It was a double Italian success at the World Aquatics Championships in Budapest. A fantastic swim from Gregorio Paltrinieri won gold in the 10km open water swimming. Just behind him, after an equally sensational swim, was Domenico Acerenza in second place.

 It is the first time in history that Italy have won two medals in a men’s event at the World Championships. “It’s a dream” said Paltrinieri speaking to RaiSport after the win. “First and second was the best thing that could have happened. Being on the podium together was amazing. We have trained together for 10 years and he is my best friend.”

 For Paltrinieri it was his fourth medal of the Championships having also won gold in the 1500m, silver in the 5km open water and bronze in the relay.

 He said that “I am going back with four medals. A very good haul. I am very happy. I thought I could do well, to show myself that I could do anything. While you prepare you worry a lot but then seeing the results is really satisfying.”

 Elsewhere in Budapest the Italian water polo overcame the home side to book their place in the semi-final.

 They will now face Greece in two days’ time having won a tight game 11-10 as they seek to defend their world title. 

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