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SA Sport awards winner Tatjana Smith says the national recognition is not only special but it also allows her to reflect on her remarkable journey in swimming.
She scooped two prestigious accolades on Sunday night in Sun City - the 2025 Sportswoman of the Year and Sport Star of the Year.
Speaking to SABC Sport, Smith says she is proud to have wrapped up her career on a high after winning a gold and a silver medal at the Paris Olympics.
"Every award means something different and is something special. The journey to achieve this award was really tough before the Paris Olympic Games.
"I am very grateful for the nickname, 'Golden Girl', but it comes with a lot of expectation."
Smith says that, despite retiring relatively early in her career, she is committed to inspiring the next generation of athletes and wants to contribute to growing the sport of swimming in the country.
The 28-year-old also shared advice to athletes who look up to her and wish to walk in her footsteps.
She says that discipline should be a lifestyle for every athlete who aims to succeed.
"Sacrifices are part of this sport, but most of all, never lose your love for the sport, because it is so easy to lose the love if you're confronted with issues like financing, or lack of family time," said the Olympic champion.
Smith shared what it means for her to win the two national awards in Women’s Month in South Africa.
"I think we should be celebrating women throughout the year, and not just in August. That's why I didn't want to mention anything about that in my speeches because we should not only be categorised in this month."
