Dániel Varga (water polo)

Dániel Rudolf Varga (born 25 September 1983) is a Hungarian water polo coach and former professional player. A prominent figure in international water polo, he achieved significant success representing the Hungary men's national water polo team, most notably winning the gold medal at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing.

Playing Career

Varga played a vital role in the Hungarian national team across multiple major international competitions. Throughout his career, he earned numerous honors, including a World Championship gold medal in 2013, alongside silver medals in 2005 and 2007. He also secured multiple medals at the European Championships, FINA World League, and FINA World Cups.

At the club level, Varga competed for several prominent teams in Hungary and Croatia. He won multiple Hungarian Championship (OB I) titles with clubs such as Vasas, Szolnok, and Ferencváros, as well as domestic cups. During his stint in Croatia with Primorje, he won the Adriatic League and the Croatian Championship.

He is the older brother of fellow water polo player Dénes Varga; the two brothers competed alongside each other as teammates on the Hungarian national team from 2004 to 2016.

Coaching Career

Following his retirement from active competition, Varga transitioned into coaching, directing teams within the Hungarian water polo circuit.

Honours and Awards

• Olympic Games: Gold medal (2008)
• World Championships: Gold medal (2013); Silver medals (2005, 2007)
• European Championships: Silver medals (2006, 2014); Bronze medals (2008, 2012, 2016)
• Hungarian Water Polo Player of the Year: 2007, 2013
• Officer's Cross of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Hungary: 2008