Water polo coaching legend Petar Porobic dies suddenly

Petar Porobic was on his way home from the Asia Games when he died suddenly.

Porobic, 67, started feeling unwell on the flight leading to the pilots initiating an emergency landing.

Unfortunately for the Montenegrin, it was already too late. Doctors were unable to resuscitate him upon landing, per reporting from Tag 24.

Porobic had coached his Chinese team to a silver medal at the 2023 Asia Games just days before his death.

The Montenegrin coach is considered one of the best coaches in water polo history, leading the still-combined Serbia and Montenegro to a World Championship in 2005.

Following Serbia and Montenegro’s split, Porobic followed up his World Championship win by leading Montenegro to a European Championship in 2008.

Between his work with Montenegro and China, Porobic also spent time coaching with Germany.

Porobic had a reputation in the water polo community for trusting in young players, backing them to come good even if it takes some time.

Total Waterpolo released a statement saying, “We are saddened to hear the unexpected loss of Montenegrin coaching legend, Petar Porobic, at the age of 67. Our deepest condolences go out to Petar's loved ones during this difficult time”.