U.S. artistic swimmer Anita Alvarez was finishing her routine in the solo free final at the World Aquatics Championships
when the two-time Olympian suddenly sank to the bottom of the pool, unconscious.
Team USA coach Andrea Fuentes immediately took action, diving into the water.
I saw that the lifeguards were not jumping into the water because they were paralyzed, she said.
"I saw how she was sinking and I swam as fast as I could," Fuentes added.
The two were then helped to the side of the pool, where Alvarez was placed onto a stretcher.
The scary situation and dramatic rescue prompted an outpouring of concern and admiration for the coach's quick thinking.
Fuentes extended her thanks on Thursday, saying in a posting on the team's Facebook page that Alvarez is feeling much better,