Seven years after declaring independence from Serbia, Kosovo has competed in the World Swimming Championships for the first time in Russia.
Despite not recognising the country’s passports, Russian authorities made an exception for this event.
The country has never previously participated in swimming at a World Championships or Olympic Games.
In February, Kosovo officially joined swimming’s World governing body FINA.
The team is hoping its debut in this year’s World Championships in Kazan will inspire other young Kosovans.
Al Jazeera’s Avni Ahmetaj reports from Pristina.
