Tatjana Smith Reflects on Retirement: "The Chapter Has Closed, But the Gratitude Never Will"

• Tatjana Smith marked the first anniversary of her retirement from competitive swimming, reflecting on her decorated career
• The Olympic gold medallist said her decision to retire was driven by love for the sport, not financial pressure
• Smith, now focused on family life, shared an emotional tribute to the journey, sacrifices and memories that defined her swimming career
• Briefly News asked financial expert Fulufhelani Mashapha about the most effective financial planning tools athletes can use to secure their finances after retirement

Olympic gold medallist Tatjana Smith (formerly Schoenmaker) has marked the first anniversary of her retirement from competitive swimming, reflecting on her illustrious career and affirming she has no plans to return to the pool.

The 28-year-old stepped away from professional swimming after the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she won gold in the 100m and silver in the 200m breaststroke.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Smith looked back on the emotional journey of her career.

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“It still feels surreal. A journey that began with a dream ultimately exceeded every expectation I had. Swimming gave me more than medals or records; it shaped who I am. It taught me discipline, resilience, humility, and the power of showing up, again and again.”

She added that her final race was dedicated to her family and her competitors, those who sacrificed and inspired her throughout her journey.

“Swimming gave me a stage, but more importantly, it gave me a purpose, a second family, and moments I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life. The chapter has closed, but the gratitude never will.”

Smith, who is married to Joel Smith, brother of Rachel Kolisi, estranged wife of Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, chose to focus on family life and personal growth after retirement.

See the post below:

Briefly News asked financial expert Fulufhelani Mashapha which financial planning tools are most effective for athletes to maintain security after retiring from sports. She said:

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"For athletes transitioning into retirement, the most effective financial planning tools include a well-structured investment portfolio, an emergency fund, retirement accounts or annuities, and insurance to protect assets."

Tatjana on athlete funding in South Africa

In a recent interview, Smith opened up about one of the lesser-known struggles athletes face: a lack of financial support.

“In South Africa, we don’t get paid by our federation, so athletes rely on sponsorships. But sponsorships are often based on performance; if you don’t place at the top, there’s little financial support.

“Winning bronze, for example, barely covers expenses. I realised that if I continued swimming, it would be purely for financial reasons, and that’s not why I started. I swam because I loved it and wanted to leave on my terms.”

She added:

“I never swam for fame or pressure. I swam because I loved it. And now, as I figure out what comes next, I carry that same passion with me.”

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Fans and fellow athletes react

Smith’s emotional post drew an outpouring of love from fans and fellow athletes.

@reinetleroux246:

“A champion through and through.”

@erin_gallagher12:

“You make this sport a better place. Always have, always will. You are incredible, my Tatzie.”

@seafurysea:

“You are incredible and an inspiration for many people. I loved watching you race, always in style. Hope you are enjoying the change.”

Tatjana’s father reflects on her journey.

Briefly News previously reported that Tatjana’s father, Rene Schoenmaker, spoke about the sacrifices behind his daughter’s success.

In an interview with SABC Sport, he beamed with pride as he recalled her achievements and the dedication shown by the entire family, including his wife Renske and Tatjana’s sister, Febienne, in supporting her Olympic journey.

Their collective effort culminated in a memorable and triumphant farewell at the 2024 Games, a fitting end to a remarkable career.

Proofreading by Kelly Lippke, copy editor at Briefly.co.za.

Source: Briefly News