Water Polo Shock: Boris Vapenski Returns to Serbian National Team After 14 Years!
Are you ready for the water polo drama of the year? Boris Vapenski, the veteran who last wore the Serbian cap a staggering 14 years ago, is back in the game! Yes, you read that right – 14 years later, this experienced water polo player returns to the Serbian “dolphins” flock, not as a benchwarmer, but as a serious player ready to defend Serbia’s colors at the World Championship in Singapore from July 12 to 25.
How did this unbelievable comeback happen?
Vapenski previously played for the Georgian national team but now, with FINA’s permission, he is officially part of the Serbian squad again. The green light came only on June 25, practically at the last moment to confirm his participation. Alongside him, Nikola Murišić also received clearance to play.
What does Vapenski say about his return?
“I am proud, fulfilled, and happy. This is a big personal moment for me, but now I’m shifting focus away from myself and onto the World Championship. The most important thing is that we get better as a team,” says Vapenski, who has won European bronze and gold medals at the World Cup and World League in his career.
Is this just a nostalgic return or serious competition?
Vapenski knows the competition in the team is fierce, with names like Filip Filipović and Dušan Mandić, but he doesn’t hide that he’s ready to help the team. “The atmosphere in the team is great, we know each other well, and I believe as a team we will deliver results.”
Preparations and expectations
The Serbian water polo players have had intense preparations in Kragujevac, Šabac, Trebinje, and at a tournament in Budapest. Vapenski scored four goals in the last match against Montenegro, a great sign of his comeback. Although they lost that game, the focus is on team success, not individual results.
Group at the World Championship
Serbia will play in a group with South Africa, Romania, and Italy. Vapenski points out that the group is tough, especially because Italy and Romania are always dangerous opponents. Serbia is one of the favorites for gold, having last won the title in 2015.
New challenges for the experienced player
Vapenski is almost 35 and admits that traveling to Asia and acclimatization is a new challenge. He also notes that playing in a neutral pool without home crowd support will be unusual but believes it will bring out the true quality of the team.
New era or fading shadow of the past?
Boris Vapenski’s return to the national team after 14 years is definitely a sports sensation. Will this veteran manage to regain glory and bring a medal to Serbia, or will it remain just a nostalgic moment? One thing is clear – the water polo scene in Serbia just got a fresh dose of excitement and stories to tell.
If you have thoughts on this comeback, or think it’s time for young players to fight for their spot, feel free to drop a comment. Who knows, maybe your word will spark a new debate!
Slug: boris-vapenski-povratak-reprezentacija-srbije-vaterpolo
