Catch some of the best events at the Paris Olympics live on Showmax.

Sameer Naik

2 August 2024

Olympic sensation Tatjana Smith announces her retirement

South African swimming has witnessed an unparalleled era of dominance, largely due to the extraordinary talents of Tatjana Smith.

With her decision to retire after the Paris Olympics, the nation bids farewell to a true sporting icon whose impact extends far beyond the pool.

She closes out her career as South Africa’s most decorated Olympian with four career medals at the Games, including two gold and two silver.

This week Showmax takes a look at Smith’s Olympic haul in her special career.

Tokyo triumph: silver and gold

The Tokyo Olympics marked the beginning of Smith's ascent to the pinnacle of her sport. In the 100m breaststroke, she secured a silver medal, a remarkable achievement that showcased her immense potential. Despite narrowly missing gold, her performance was a harbinger of the dominance she would soon display.

20210730 Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games - Aquatics

Smith's crowning moment in Tokyo came in the 200m breaststroke. Not only did she clinch the gold medal but she also shattered the world record, a feat that sent shockwaves through the swimming world. This historic victory propelled her into the global spotlight and established her as a force to be reckoned with.

Paris perfection: double gold dream

Swimming - Olympic Games Paris 2024: Day 3

Building on her Tokyo success, Smith arrived at the Paris Olympics with the weight of expectation on her shoulders. In the 100m breaststroke, she delivered a performance of pure brilliance, securing gold and becoming only the fourth South African to win multiple Olympic gold medals. This victory solidified her status as a national hero and elevated her to the pantheon of swimming greats.

Swimming - Olympic Games Paris 2024: Day 6

The 200m breaststroke final was the grand finale of Smith’s illustrious career. In a thrilling race, she fought tooth and nail to secure another silver medal. While the gold eluded her, this achievement was a testament to her unwavering competitive spirit and her status as one of the best breaststroke swimmers of all time.

Tatjana Smith’s four Olympic medals are a testament to her extraordinary talent, unwavering dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Her legacy extends far beyond the medals, inspiring countless young swimmers to dream big and believe in the power of human potential.

As she hangs up her swimming cap, South Africa bids farewell to a true sporting icon whose name will forever be etched in the annals of the nation’s sporting history.

Sign up for the Showmax Premier League mobile plan for R69 p/m at www.showmax.com to stream some of the best events live on your mobile.

More like this

Sport

The Big 6ix on new Premier League season and their SA adventure

Showmax Premier League caught up with The Big 6ix to hear their new season predictions and verdict on their South African trip.

Live

Pyramids v Mamelodi Sundown - CAF Champions League Final

Will anyone stop the champs? Booth on Downs' quest for a 9th title

The Betway Premiership officially kicks off this weekend, and Showmax Premier League has you covered with all the action. Catch Mamelodi Sundowns take on Chippa United on Saturday, 9 August 2025, at 15:00.

Live South Africa

Catch the Community Shield final between Crystal Palace and Liverpool, live on Showmax PL.

The curtain rises: Wembley Showdown - LFC vs Crystal Palace

This Sunday, Wembley Stadium will host the FA Community Shield, an epic clash between Premier League champions Liverpool and FA Cup winners Crystal Palace. Catch the action live on Showmax PL.

Live

Showmax Premier League weekly watchlist: 19-25 August 2025

Stream all Premier League and PSL games live on Showmax Premier League.

Live

Showmax PL kicks off football fiesta with MTN8 quarter-finals

Stream the MTN8 quarter-finals on Saturday, 2 August, and Sunday, 3 August, live on Showmax Premier League.

Live

Melissa Kape Saili tips Morocco to win WAFCON final

Ahead of the WAFCON final, former Zambia star player Melissa Kape Saili shares her prediction on whether Morocco or Nigeria will take the title. Stream it live on Showmax Premier League on Saturday, 26 July.

Live

Showmax PL kicks off new football season with unmatched action

Football fans, get ready for an action-packed year, as Showmax Premier League brings you every moment of the Premier League, English knockout competitions, the Betway Premiership, and more!

Live

Giants: Buccaneers' untold story streams live on Showmax PL

Showmax Premier League is set to bring you docuseries Giants, which delves deep into the heart of South African football, from 27 July 2025.

LiveMade in South Africa

SA celebs open up about divorce on Untied

Youngins S3, coming soon to Showmax

Best to binge this weekend

Law & Order S23-24

The original Law & Order resumes its classic two-part approach following both the police who investigate crimes and the DAs who prosecute them.

How to pay for Showmax at a supermarket

Your favourite entertainment just got easier to pay for at a supermarket near you, offering the ultimate in convenience.

5 patients you’ll meet in The Pitt Season 1

The Pitt’s head makeup artist Myriam Arougheti and her team scored one of the series’ 13 Emmy nominations for their jaw-dropping special effects makeup. We’ve picked just five of their patients for a checkup.

Ilana Glazer delivers in Babes

Comedian Ilana Glazer talks about the conception, development and “birthing” of her new movie Babes. And we’ve added seven more series and movies about mom friends to enjoy.