Tatjana Smith (formerly Schoenmaker) is a remarkable athlete and the most successful female Olympian breaststroker in history. Her achievements are often compared with those of her fellow countrywoman and now-retired competitor, Penny Heyns.

Tatjana is renowned for her groundbreaking achievements in the sport.

Her journey began at a young age, as she displayed extraordinary talent and dedication to swimming. Over the years, she has shattered records and set new standards for excellence in breaststroke, captivating audiences around the world.

Her legacy includes tieing as the only Olympian, male or female, to secure four Olympic medals in breaststroke events. This incredible feat not only highlights her exceptional skills but also underscores her tenacity and relentless pursuit of greatness. Tatjana also holds the Olympic, South African and African records for the 100m and 200m breaststroke events, establishing herself as a dominant force in competitive swimming. She also won Gold in the 2018 Commonwealth Games over both 100m and 200m.

In 2021, she made history by becoming the first female swimmer to break the prestigious 2:19:00 barrier in the 200m breaststroke, a milestone that further solidified her status as a pioneer in the sport. Additionally, she was the first South African woman to win a gold medal at the World Championships, marking a significant achievement in her career. Her impressive medal tally features gold and silver medals from the 2021 and 2024 Olympic Games, and she has consistently performed well at the World Championships and Commonwealth Games, reinforcing her legacy.

Tatjana’s remarkable abilities have certainly not gone unnoticed, as she has earned numerous accolades throughout her career. She was named ‘African Female Swimmer of the Year’ multiple times between 2018 and 2023, reflecting her dominance in the sport on the continent. Furthermore, her recognition as ‘Sports Star’ and ‘Sportswoman of the Year’ in both 2019 and 2022 showcases her impact beyond just swimming. With her incredible achievements and unwavering spirit, Tatjana remains an enduring icon in the world of swimming, inspiring future generations of athletes.