The purpose of the study is to analyze the characteristics of competitive activities of highly skilled water polo players under the conditions of the updated World Aquatics rules and to determine the nature of their impact on the requirements for the athletes' specialized physical training. Research methods and organization. The study was conducted based on video analysis of official matches of the Russian Championship and the Russian Super Cup in men's master water polo teams. Methods used included protocol analysis, comparative analysis, and mathematical-statistical analysis, providing an objective assessment of the dynamics and structure of game actions. Research results and conclusions. It has been established that the updated World Aquatics rules have contributed to an increase in the pace and density of the game, a growth in the proportion of fast transitions, and a reduction in the duration of attacks. The heightened intensity of competitive activity has intensified the demands on the development of speed-strength qualities, specific endurance, and the coordination abilities of water polo players. The obtained data can be used to improve training programs for high-level athletes.