Next up on the men's side is Oleksiy Prygorov. The 37-year-old Ukrainian claimed fourth place at the World Aquatics Championships in Fukuoka in 2023 and his participation in Singapore is highly anticipated, given his consistent performances and experience in the sport.

We put Oleksiy into the question-and-answer hot seat. Here's what we got from him:

Nature Over Cityscapes

Oleksiy loves the thrill of diving from jaw-dropping natural landscapes, often over famous city landmarks. When asked about his favorite dive spots, he shared, "For me, it’s top three: the Philippines, Azores, and this year, we did the Notre Island. Even when the weather was cold, it was incredible." He's always on the lookout for new places in nature.

A Dream Dive at Christ the Redeemer

While nature’s beauty is his favorite setting, Oleksiy has one famous landmark he’s eager to dive in front of: the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue in Brazil. “In front of the Jesus statue in Brazil, I like him very much.”

The Michael Phelps Mix-Up

With his athletic build and striking resemblance to swimmer Michael Phelps, Oleksiy’s experienced some funny fan mix-ups. "Once, at a trampoline competition in Japan, around 40 people came up to me for autographs thinking I was Michael Phelps," he laughed. “I apologized so many times, but in the end, I signed some papers just for them.”

Signature Dive in the Works

Oleksiy is not only diving but innovating. He’s working on a unique dive, a “handstand inward somersault tuck,” that he believes no one else has attempted. "I'm ready to present it and show that it’s possible, to make a little history," he shared excitedly. He’s hoping to bring it to competition soon, with plans to eventually attempt it from a 27-meter platform.

A Global Playlist

When it comes to preparing for a big dive, Oleksiy’s music playlist is as diverse as his dive locations. “I have a mix of everything: Spanish, Italian... if I like it, it goes on my list,” he explained. Music is part of his ritual to calm his nerves and keep his focus before a competition.

Grounded and Grateful

Oleksiy has a pre-dive ritual rooted in gratitude. "I respect the platform, the water, the weather... I believe in God and am thankful for every chance I get to do this,” he shared.

Dream Celebrity Audience: 50 Cent

If Oleksiy could have any celebrity watch him dive, he would invite none other than rapper 50 Cent. "It would be cool to have him there," he laughed. He admires 50 Cent’s energy and says it would be fun to have a big star cheer him on.