European water polo champions welcomed in Belgrade

European water polo champions welcomed in Belgrade

BELGRADE -- Serbia men's national water polo team celebrated the European Championship title with several thousand people in downtown Belgrade on Tuesday.

With the gold medals around their necks and greeted by cheers of support, the European water polo champions stepped onto the balcony of the Belgrade City Assembly, the traditional spot for celebrations of Serbian athletic achievements.

"Thank you for the love you show us, we love you too with all our hearts. You have every reason to be proud of this team," said team captain Živko Gocić .

President of the Water Polo Federation of Serbia Milorad Krivokapić congratulated the players on their outstanding success and wished that it brings good luck to all in Serbia.

"May this gold medal bring good fortune to us all,“ said Krivokapić.

After the welcome ceremony outside the City Assembly, the Serbian team were received by Belgrade Mayor Siniša Mali. On Monday, they were also received by President Tomislav Nikolić.

The national water polo team defended the title of European Champion by defeating Hungary 12-7 in the final of the 31st European Championship in Budapest on Sunday.