Spyros Chrysikopoulos has become the first swimmer to complete a swim across the sea route from Greece to Italy, a unique achievement in open-water swimming.
The 43-year-old athlete set out from Othonoi, Greece’s westernmost point, and after swimming 91.4 kilometers reached Santa Maria di Leuca in southern Italy. The crossing took a total of 31 hours and 50 minutes over a particularly demanding open-water route.
Throughout the attempt, Chrysikopoulos had to contend with strong sea currents and constantly shifting weather conditions in the area, testing both his physical and mental endurance.
The achievement carries added significance as a goal he had previously attempted and failed to reach. In 2024, he made his first attempt to cross the same stretch of sea, but difficult conditions prevented him from completing it — strong winds, heavy swell and the presence of jellyfish forced him to abandon the crossing.
Two years later, he returned determined and better prepared for the challenge. This time, his persistence paid off.
After nearly 32 hours of continuous swimming, Chrysikopoulos reached the Italian coast, marking an unprecedented achievement for Greek long-distance swimming.
