Cuban Jhoen Lefont sets new world record for ball control in water

The Cuban Jhoen Lefont set a new world record this Thursday by balancing a soccer ball on his head for 8 minutes and 30.66 seconds, all while carrying an additional weight of five kilograms at his waist.

The impressive achievement of the former water polo player took place in one of the pools at the Baraguá swimming complex, located east of Havana, reported the specialized website Jit.

Known as "The Dolphin" for his prowess in the water, Lefont performed synchronized arm and leg exercises in the pool to stay afloat for a record time, a challenge that required not just skill but also significant physical and mental endurance.

"This new brand was created to celebrate the 505th anniversary of the founding of Havana and the Day of Physical Culture and Sports," the athlete explained in statements to the official Cuban press.

"The training is very demanding; I try to take modalities that are usually done on land to the water, and this is one of the most challenging," the athlete from Matanzas added, highlighting what he considers a rewarding experience to conclude a year of achievements.

Lefont, who holds around 20 world records, nine of which have been officially recognized by the Guinness World Records, expressed his satisfaction with this new milestone in his career.

Among its most notable records are the most consecutive touches of a ball with the head and the longest time balancing a ball in water, all under demanding conditions.

Lefont's coach, Jorge del Valle, who is also a former water polo player and ex-coach of the Cuban women's national team, celebrated the achievement: “We have had a good 2024, and next year will be even better. Jhoen is working on innovative approaches that will continue to impress,” Del Valle commented.

Lefont also set another world record in September when he covered 750 meters in the waters of Varadero, Matanzas, balancing a soccer ball on his head. This achievement surpassed his previous mark of 600 meters, further solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest specialists in this discipline.