Tatjana Smith Claims South Africa's First Gold at Paris 2024 with Stunning 100m Breaststroke Victory

In a thrilling display of grit and determination, South African swimmer Tatjana Smith (née Schoenmaker) secured the nation's first gold medal at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games on Monday evening. Smith clinched victory in the 100m breaststroke event, overcoming a challenging start and a fierce competition to achieve her long-awaited Olympic gold.

Entering the final as the top contender, Smith had previously posted identical heat and semifinal times of 1:05.00, outpacing all her rivals. Despite a slower final time of 1:05.28, Smith's dramatic finish was enough to edge out her competitors and claim the gold.

Photo: Maddie Meyer / Getty Images

The race was anything but straightforward for the breaststroke queen. Smith found herself in fourth place at the halfway mark, trailing behind China's Tang Qianting, who led the race from the start, and Ireland's Mona McSharry, who provided strong competition. However, Smith's expertise in the 200m breaststroke, her preferred event, shone through in the final 25 meters. With a powerful surge, she closed the gap and executed a perfectly timed lunge to secure the win, finishing 0.26 seconds ahead of Tang, who took the silver. McSharry completed the podium in third place with a time of 1:05.59.

Smith's emotional reaction to her victory was a testament to her dedication and the support she received throughout her journey. “I don’t think anyone can explain it. It took a village to get me to where I am today,” Smith reflected post-race. “I swam for everyone that believed in me and for the country as well.”

Photo: Sarah Stier / Getty Images

Her victory is a significant milestone, especially considering her near miss in Tokyo, where she earned silver in the same event. Smith's focus now shifts to the 200m breaststroke, an event where she has historically excelled. A medal in this event would make her South Africa’s most decorated Olympian, tying her with Chad le Clos with four Olympic medals.

Smith’s inspiring performance and her dedication to representing her country highlight the spirit of the Olympics, as she continues to inspire future generations of athletes.