Tatjana Smith announces retirement from swimming

Tatjana Smith has ended her career, announcing her retirement shortly after making history as South Africa’s most accomplished Olympian at the 2024 Paris Games.

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It wasn’t a bombshell announcement, given the 27-year-old has consistently said that swimming doesn’t define her.

She has a life outside of the pool and it’s always best for champions to walk away on a high.

A staunch Christian, she has always believed there’s a bigger plan and goal to her life than winning swimming medals.

Tatjana Smith retires with four Olympic medals

Besides, she got married late last year and will be into her thirties by the time the next Olympics swing into view.

“I’m looking forward to my life outside of swimming.” she said in making her announcement.

“It was an amazing battle and I’ve never raced Kate (Douglass) in an Olympic final before. I couldn’t have asked for a better way to end my career in a very tough battle. I’ve always loved competing.”

In confirming her retirement, Smith said: “Achievements fall away. You are remembered for who you are and I want to be remembered for bringing people joy. Swimming is a part of a season in your life and now I’m excited to live life.”

The swimmer won her fourth Olympic medal across two Games when powering to silver in the women’s 200m breaststroke on Thursday night, which sees her hang up her goggles and swim cap with two golds and two silvers to her collection.