Tatjana Smith changes allegiance from South Africa to Netherlands

Tatjana Smith, South Africa's most decorated Olympian with four breaststroke medals, has announced she is switching her international allegiance to the Netherlands. The 29-year-old retired after the Paris 2024 Games but came out of retirement in September to target the 2028 Olympics. Smith holds dual citizenship because her father is Dutch, and she noted that the move offers her an opportunity to explore her heritage and build a more sustainable career. She cited financial and practical challenges, alongside previous worries with Swimming South Africa, as difficulties in her past career. Smith plans to continue living and training in South Africa while representing the Dutch team, starting at the short course world championships in December.