David Small is back at the top, becoming a barefoot waterskiing Open World Champion for the 20th time, eight years after he last competed at the highest level. GB won five medals in total at the 2026 Worlds.

David dominated the sport worldwide for two decades, winning his first world title in 2002. He holds the current world records in barefoot jumping (29.9 metres, set in 2010) and tricks (13,350 points, set in 2018).

David Small jumping at the 2026 Worlds. Photo Darian LeBlanc

As well as his three individual medals, there were two more podiums for Great Britain in the team competition. Both the Open Team and the Junior Team won bronze after some impressive results from squad members.

The Open Team was made up of David Small, Tom Heaps, Rick Moyes, Adan Chalk and Robbie Crewe.

The Junior Team was Olly Moore and Matilda Mulcahy.

Congratulations to them all.

GB Team - Photo Paula Patterson

The 2026 IWWF Open, Under-23 & Junior World Barefoot Water Ski Championships took place at Lake Myrtle, Auburndale, Florida, USA, from 17-24 October.

You can find the full results here.