In a recent interview with Il Fatto Quotidiano (author Alberto Facchinetti), Alessandro Di Somma, a veteran of Italian Serie A water polo, shared his concerns about the state of the sport today. Reflecting on his long career, Di Somma highlighted how water polo has drastically changed over the years, especially in terms of the opportunities it offers to younger generations.
“Water polo is not what it used to be,” Di Somma explains. “Today, there are fewer opportunities, and the sport does not provide the same level of financial stability as before. It’s become more challenging for athletes to sustain themselves solely through the sport.”
In an unexpectedly candid remark, Di Somma stated, “If I were to advise a 20-year-old player today, I wouldn’t recommend continuing with water polo. It’s better to focus on studying or finding a job. The financial and professional returns in water polo are just not sufficient anymore.”
Di Somma’s words reflect the harsh reality many young athletes face in today’s sporting world. While the love for water polo remains strong, the financial viability and long-term career prospects are increasingly uncertain. You can read the full interview here.
