Star-Studded Lineup Revealed: USA Women’s Water Polo Team Gears Up for 2025 World Championships…Read More…
USA Water Polo has officially unveiled its women’s national team roster for the 2025 World Aquatics Championships, and it’s nothing short of a powerhouse lineup. As the reigning Olympic champions and perennial favorites in global competition, Team USA is preparing to defend its dominance with a mix of seasoned veterans and rising young talent. With the championships set to take place in Singapore this September, all eyes are on the red, white, and blue as they seek to write another glorious chapter in the sport’s history.
A Legacy of Excellence
Team USA enters the 2025 World Championships as one of the most decorated teams in water polo history. Under the direction of longtime head coach Adam Krikorian, who has led the team to four consecutive Olympic medals—including three straight golds—the American squad is poised for yet another strong showing. Their recent victory in the 2024 Paris Olympics further solidified their status as the team to beat.
“We’re incredibly proud of the group we’re bringing to Singapore,” said Krikorian during the official roster announcement in Los Angeles. “This team reflects our deep talent pool, unrelenting work ethic, and passion for continuing the legacy of USA Water Polo on the world stage.”
Veterans Lead the Charge
At the core of this year’s roster are returning Olympic champions who bring invaluable experience and leadership. Maggie Steffens, the team’s longtime captain and three-time Olympic gold medalist, headlines the roster once again. Known for her intelligence in the pool and uncanny ability to score in critical moments, Steffens will be competing in what could be her final World Championship appearance.
Joining her is goalkeeper Ashleigh Johnson, widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the history of women’s water polo. Johnson’s remarkable saves and command of the defense were crucial in Team USA’s gold medal run in Paris.
Other veterans include attacker Maddie Musselman, defender Alys Williams, and center forward Aria Fischer—each bringing unique skills and chemistry that have defined the team’s recent success.
“These women are not just incredible athletes; they’re leaders,” Krikorian added. “Their composure, competitive spirit, and camaraderie will be essential as we face off against the best teams in the world.”
Rising Stars and Fresh Energy
The 2025 roster also features an exciting infusion of young talent, including several players who have recently graduated from the junior national program or made names for themselves in NCAA water polo.
Among them is 19-year-old phenom Jordan Frost, who was named MVP at the 2024 Junior Pan American Championships. Known for her speed and aggressive play style, Frost is expected to be a key contributor in Singapore.
Also earning a spot is Princeton standout Sophie Niles, whose playmaking ability and defensive versatility impressed coaches throughout the training camp and exhibition series earlier this year.
“These young women have earned their spots through consistent performance and dedication,” said Krikorian. “They bring a new energy that’s pushing everyone to get better.”
Road to Singapore
In preparation for the World Championships, Team USA has undergone an intensive training regimen that included international friendlies against top-ranked squads like Spain, Italy, and Australia. The matches not only helped solidify team chemistry but also provided valuable scouting for the potential semifinal and final opponents.
“Our training has been focused on adaptability, speed, and tactical depth,” explained assistant coach Heather Petri. “The international game continues to evolve, and we’re committed to staying ahead of the curve.”
Team USA will enter the tournament as the top seed in Group A, where they will face teams including the Netherlands, Japan, and South Africa in the preliminary rounds. The goal, as always, is to make a deep run into the medal rounds and capture another world title—their eighth overall if successful.
Broader Impact and Growing the Game
Beyond chasing medals, this year’s roster announcement represents USA Water Polo’s continued commitment to promoting the sport across the country and inspiring the next generation of athletes.
“This team is a reflection of how far women’s water polo has come in the U.S.,” said USA Water Polo CEO Christopher Ramsey. “From youth leagues to college programs to international play, the growth of the sport has been phenomenal, and our national team is the pinnacle of that journey.”
To build on that momentum, USA Water Polo will be launching a digital docuseries titled “Making Waves: The Road to Singapore”—a behind-the-scenes look at the team’s training, lives, and the pressure of representing their country on the world stage.
“We want fans to see not just the glory, but the grind,” said Ramsey. “These athletes are role models, and their stories deserve to be told.”
Full Roster
Goalkeepers: Ashleigh Johnson, Amanda Longan
Field Players: Maggie Steffens (captain), Maddie Musselman, Alys Williams, Aria Fischer, Kaleigh Gilchrist, Stephania Haralabidis, Jordan Frost, Sophie Niles, Tara Prentice, Ryann Neushul, Jenna Flynn
Eyes on Gold
With a balanced roster of proven champions and electrifying newcomers, Team USA is ready to make a splash at the 2025 World Championships. As they aim to add yet another gold medal to their storied history, fans across the globe will be watching—cheering, hoping, and believing in the unmatched power of Team USA water polo.
Let the games begin.
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