BUDAPEST, Hungary - The Chinese team won its first-ever gold medal in synchronized swimming at the FINA World Championships, taking the title in the team free combination here on Saturday.

Synchronized swimming powerhouse Russia was absent from the matchup in the Hungarian capital. Under the theme of master and commander as a manifestation for bravery against challenges, the Chinese team earned 96.1000 points.

Ukraine ranked second, with 94.0000 points. The bronze medal went to Japan, with 93.2000 points.