Two-time Olympic gold medallist Tatjana Smith has announced that she will compete for the Netherlands, saying financial and practical challenges of a swimming career played a part in her decision.
Smith, who holds dual South African and Dutch citizenship, announced the switch in an Instagram video on Tuesday. She said she will continue to train in South Africa and is targeting the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
What she said
"I've decided to swim for the Netherlands," Smith said in the video. "I know that not everyone will understand or agree with my decision."
She said that as a little girl her biggest dream was to represent South Africa at the Olympics. "Both countries are a part of who I am," she said. "But dreams can change as you grow." She also said the move offers more high-performance support and a more sustainable career.
Her record
Smith, who competed as Tatjana Schoenmaker at the Tokyo Games, is described as South Africa's most successful Olympian. According to reports, her medals are:
- Tokyo 2021: gold in the 200m breaststroke and silver in the 100m breaststroke.
- Paris 2024: gold in the 100m breaststroke and silver in the 200m breaststroke.
She retired after Paris and announced a comeback about two months ago, according to reports.
What we do not yet know
- How Swimming South Africa and the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee have responded.
- When she would first be eligible to compete for the Netherlands under World Aquatics rules, which we have not been able to confirm.
