Five South Africans to watch at 2024 Paris Olympics

The 2024 Paris Olympics are fast approaching and South Africa is poised to make a splash with a talented group of athletes across multiple sports.

From track and field to swimming and surfing, here are FIVE South African athletes to keep an eye on as they chase Olympic glory in the City of Light.

WAYDE VAN NIEKERK – SOUTH AFRICA’S SPRINT KING

Wayde van Niekerk, the current world record holder in the 400m, will be looking to reclaim his Olympic crown in Paris.

The 31-year-old missed out on the podium in Tokyo but has been rounding back into form.

Expect van Niekerk to be a major medal threat in the 400m and 4x400m relay for South Africa at the 2024 Olympics.

TATJANA SCHOENMAKER – BREASTSTROKE PHENOM

After bursting onto the scene with gold and silver medals in Tokyo, swimmer Tatjana Schoenmaker has established herself as one of the top breaststrokers in the world.

Still only 26, Schoenmaker will be in her prime in 2024 and aiming to add to her Olympic hardware. South Africa’s swimming sensation is a must-watch in Paris.

AKANI SIMBINE – CHASING 100M GLORY

Akani Simbine narrowly missed out on a 100m medal in Tokyo, finishing fourth in a stacked final.

But the 29-year-old sprinter has consistently been one of the top performers on the Diamond League circuit.

If he can put it all together in 2024, Simbine has a great shot at becoming the first South African man to win an Olympic 100m medal since Reggie Walker in 1908.

JORDY SMITH – SURFING VETERAN SEEKING OLYMPIC REDEMPTION

Jordy Smith, one of the most accomplished surfers of his generation, had to withdraw from the Tokyo Olympics due to injury.

Fully healthy, the 35-year-old will be extra motivated to make his mark when surfing makes its second Olympic appearance in Paris.

Look for Smith to be a podium contender as he represents South Africa on the waves in 2024.

CHRISTIAAN BEZUIDENHOUT – RISING GOLF STAR

28-year-old Christiaan Bezuidenhout has been a steady presence on the DP World Tour and PGA Tour in recent years.

The unflappable South African will spearhead a strong golf contingent in Paris, where the sport returns for its second straight Olympics.

With his well-rounded game and even-keeled demeanour, Bezuidenhout has the perfect mentality to handle the Olympic pressure and contend for a medal.

FOR THE LATEST PARIS OLYMPIC NEWS, BOOKMARK THE SAPEOPLE WEBSITE

From world record holders to rising stars, these five South African athletes have the talent and drive to make a major impact at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

With the hopes of a nation behind them, don’t be surprised to see these competitors draped in gold, silver, and bronze as they proudly represent the rainbow nation on sport’s biggest stage.

South Africa’s Olympic dreams run through these five athletes as they chase glory in the City of Light.