World Aquatics revealed the nominees on its website, listing five male and five female players competing for the coveted recognition.
In the men’s category, Fatović, a 27-year-old from Dubrovnik, is joined by American Adrian Weinberg, Serbian stars Nikola Jakšić and Dušan Mandić, and French player Thomas Vernoux.
The women’s nominees include Dutch standout Sabrina van der Sloot, Spaniards Beatriz Ortiz and Elena Ruiz Barril, and Australians Gabriella Palm and Alice Williams.
Fatović’s nomination follows an extraordinary year as the cornerstone of Croatia’s national team. The team clinched the World Championship title in Doha, secured silver at the European Championship in Zagreb, and earned another silver at the Paris Olympics. His exceptional performance also earned him a place in Men's Water Polo Media All-Star Team, solidifying his status as one of the sport’s elite players.