The second leg of the FINA Artistic Swimming World Series is underway in Beijing ©FINA

The home nation got off to a golden start as the China Open, second leg of this year’s International Swimming Federation (FINA) Artistic Swimming World Series, got underway in Beijing.

China was victorious in the team technical event, totalling 89.0903 points, with the United States taking the silver medal with 79.9018 at the Yingdong Natatorium in the Olympic Sports Centre in the Chinese capital. 

Slovakia were bronze medallists with 73.6496 points, ahead of , who scored 70.8994.

The host nation also won the duets technical routine thanks to twin sisters Jiang Wenwen and Jing Tingting.

Over the music of Flamengo, the world silver medallist Chinese pairing showed their passion and skills, winning 90.5171 points for their routine. 

Anna-Maria Alexandri/Eirini Alexandri of Austria took the silvers in 84.7241 while Anita Alvarez/Ruby Remati from the United States came third with 81.7575.

Nadia Daabousova of Slovakia claimed the solo technical title, finishing a clear winner on 78.1890 points. 

Slovakia's Nadia Daabousova won the solo technical final on the first day of the FINA Artistic Swimming World Series in Beijing as hosts China were winners in the team technical event ©Getty Images
Slovakia's Nadia Daabousova won the solo technical final on the first day of the FINA Artistic Swimming World Series in Beijing as hosts China were winners in the team technical event ©Getty Images

Malaysia’s Hua Wei Gan, who totalled 73.5892 points, was second ahead of compatriot Yan Nie Foong, who scored 69.3744.

Next up in the Beijing leg will be the technical duet and team free finals.

Competition is taking place a venue upgraded for the 2008 Olympics, during which time it hosted Olympic water polo matches and the swimming element of the modern pentathlon event.

Eight legs remain in this World Series, with the next competition due to take place in Tokyo from April 27 until 30.