Spain sealed their fourth world title in men’s water polo on Thursday night, overcoming a resilient Hungarian side 15–13 in a thrilling gold medal showdown at the OCBC Aquatic Centre. The World Aquatics Championships – Singapore 2025 final also marked a fairytale ending for Spanish captain Felipe Perrone Rocha, who announced his retirement after the tournament.

In a clash between two European giants, it was Spain (ESP) who opened with intent, racing to a 3–1 lead in the opening quarter thanks to a rapid hat-trick from Player of the Final Bernat Sanahuja. But Hungary (HUN), the defending Olympic silver medallists, were quick to counter, levelling the score multiple times and briefly taking the lead by the third quarter, 10–9.

With the game on the line in the final quarter, Spain surged ahead once more, scoring six goals to Hungary’s three and securing the gold medal with a 15–13 finish.

“This is a dream,” said Spanish head coach David Martin. “The team played incredible water polo, especially in the last quarter. We’ve worked so hard after Paris and the previous championship, so this gold means everything to us.”

For Perrone, the night was deeply emotional. The 38-year-old veteran scored the last goal for Spain — a poetic full stop to an illustrious career that spanned nearly two decades.

“It was like a movie,” Perrone said. “Even the best movies don’t end this perfectly. That last goal, in the final, to win the world championship… I’m so proud of this team.”

Though Spain lifted the trophy, Perrone noted the significance of the relationships forged throughout his career.

“I’ve cried a lot these past six months. This team has been my second family — I’ve spent more time with them than my own,” he said. “What I’ll miss most is not just the winning, but the bond we created.”