Artistic swimming at the 2024 Paris Olympics made a splash on August 5 with the USA team capturing attention with their unique performance. The team, which had already impressed at the World Aquatics Doha 2024, stole the spotlight again by incorporating a tribute to Michael Jackson into their routine.
In a video that quickly went viral on X (formerly Twitter), the USA artistic swimming team performed an underwater rendition of Jackson’s iconic hit “Smooth Criminal.” The routine featured the athletes executing the moonwalk while submerged, showcasing their extraordinary skills and creativity. Since its posting on August 6, the video has amassed over 16 million views, with viewers praising the team’s innovative approach.
WATCH THE VIDEO:
Michael Jackson would be proud, how do you moonwalk underwater 😭 ????pic.twitter.com/xflmtjClEM
— vids that go hard (@vidsthatgohard) August 6, 2024
Comments on the video highlight the impressive nature of the performance. One viewer noted, “This Olympics, Team USA is really doing a great job,” while another praised the “Michael Jackson-inspired outfits and the amazing upside-down moonwalk.” A third user commented on the technical difficulty involved, saying, “The precision needed for every move, combined with the challenges of limited hearing underwater and perfect breath control, is beyond amazing.”
In the competition, China took first place with a high-energy technical routine. The Chinese team, clad in red-and-black sequined swimsuits, performed a composition titled “Speed and Passion” by Wu Mingxua.
Adding to the excitement, Google celebrated the start of the artistic swimming events with a colorful animated doodle. The doodle featured animated birds cheering and performing synchronized stunts in a fountain.
Artistic swimming first appeared in the Olympics at the 1996 Summer Games in Atlanta, and continues to be a highlight of the aquatic sports calendar.