Athletes win big at South African Sports Awards

by Sergio Miller

On Sunday, many of the country’s top athletes gathered at the Sun City bowl in celebration of the 2025 South African Sports Awards.

The occasion recognizes the contribution of sports to social cohesion and unity, and celebrates courage and excellent performance in the field of sports.

The evening is nothing without the distribution of awards and trophies, and this year was no different, proving that hard work pays off when you commit yourself to the task at hand.

The biggest winner on the night was none other than Olympic medalist Tatjana Smith. The renowned swimmer was named Sportswoman and Sports star of the Year, along with a R500 000 cheque to seal off an eventful night for the four-time Olympian.

During her acceptance speech, an emotional Tatjana expressed appreciation toward the nation for its unwavering support throughout her career. After successfully competing in the 2024 Paris Olympics, she has called time on her career in the swimming pool by announcing her retirement.

Speaking from the podium, she said:

“South Africa, thank you for allowing me to be your golden girl. It’s honestly been an honour, it was bigger than I ever dreamed. I can’t put into words how much your support has meant. There are no words to describe how special it was to stand on the stage and represent South Africa. I never want to give that up for the world.”

Other major winners include:

  • Sport Team of the Year – 4x100m Men’s Team (Paris Olympics)
  • Coach of the Year – Rocco Meiring (Swimming)
  • Sportswoman of the Year with a Disability – Simoné Kruger (Para Athletics)
  • Sportsman of the Year with a Disability – Mpumelelo Mhlongo (Para Athletics)
  • Sportswoman of the Year – Tatjana Smith (Swimming)
  • Sportsman of the Year – Alan Hartherly (Cycling)
  • Sport Star of the Year – Tatjana Smith (Swimming)

Also see: Tatjana Smith wins silver at Paris Olympics