Anita Alvarez performed her solo free routine at the 2022 World Aquatics Championships in Budapest on Wednesday. During her performance, she fainted and quickly sunk to the bottom of the pool. Alvarez's coach, Andrea Fuentes, thought quickly, dove into the pool, and brought her to the surface.
This is according to AP News, which reported Fuentes' heroics early Thursday morning.
The two-time Olympic medalist received medical attention immediately after the rescue. And, according to USA Artistic Swimming, she's recovering well.
“Anita has been evaluated by medical staff and will continue to be monitored. She is feeling much better and using today to rest,” the organization told The Associated Press.
Before this, Alvarez competed in four preliminary and three final competitions through the first six days of the championships. She placed seventh in the individual final on Wednesday.
While it was a scary scene, this wasn't the first time Fuentes came to Alvarez's rescue. About a year ago, Alvarez and her partner, Lindi Schroeder, were performing their free duet routine at the 2021 Olympic Games Qualification Tournament in Barcelona. Towards the end of the routine, Alvarez fainted, prompting Fuentes to dive in after her (per WIVB).
Alvarez's team is competing in the free team final on Friday. USA Artistic Swimming told The Associated Press that her involvement in the event “will be determined by Anita and expert medical staff.”
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