Tatjana Smith Shines at South African Sport Awards

Golden moment Olympic champion Tatjana Smith two prestigious awards, Sportswoman of the Year and Sport Star of the Year.

The 18th South African Sport Awards, held at Sun City on August 24, 2025, was a night to remember, with Olympic champion Tatjana Smith taking center stage.

Smith, known for her dominance in the pool, walked away with not one but two prestigious awards: Sportswoman of the Year and Sport Star of the Year.

The ceremony, themed "Celebrating Sporting Excellence," brought together the country's top athletes, coaches, and sports administrators. Smith's impressive haul capped off an incredible career, marked by multiple Olympic medals and world championships.

In an emotional acceptance speech, Smith expressed her gratitude to the nation, saying, "South Africa, thank you for allowing me to be your golden girl." Her words resonated deeply with the audience, highlighting the profound impact sports have on the nation.

Other notable winners included Alan Hatherly, named Sportsman of the Year, and Simone Kruger, who won Sportswoman of the Year with a Disability and Junior Sport Star of the Year. Mpumelelo Mhlongo was also recognized as Sportsman of the Year with a Disability. The 4x100m Men's Relay Team, fresh from their success at the Paris Olympics, was named Team of the Year.

Rocco Meiring was recognized as Coach of the Year for his outstanding work in swimming. Pholetsi Moseki won Sport Administrator of the Year for her contributions to Cricket South Africa.

Palesa Manaleng, a renowned sports journalist, took home the Sports Media Journalist of the Year award, while Ernesta Strydom was recognized as Technical Official of the Year for her work in para-cycling.

The South African Rugby Union was named National Federation of the Year, reflecting their dedication to promoting rugby in the country. Made for More Zama, a para-surfing organization, won the Recreation Body of the Year award, promoting inclusivity and accessibility in sports.

Phuti Lekoloane was recognized as Sport Volunteer of the Year for his contributions to football, demonstrating the impact of volunteers in shaping the sporting landscape.

The SA U19 Tug of War Men's Team was named Youth/Junior Sport Team of the

Year, and Roger Sedres won Sport Visual Journalist of the Year.

The awards ceremony was a testament to the hard work and dedication of athletes, coaches, and administrators across various sports disciplines.

It highlighted the importance of sports in bringing people together and promoting national pride. The event concluded with a celebration of the achievements of the winners, inspiring future generations to pursue excellence in sports.