South Africa’s swimming sensation Tatjana Smith made history once again, taking home the prestigious Sport Star of the Year award at the 18th annual South African Sport Awards.
The glittering ceremony took place at the Sun City Superbowl on Sunday evening, celebrating athletes who have not only excelled in their sports but have also inspired the nation.
Celebrating Sporting Excellence
This year’s awards, themed “Celebrating Sporting Excellence,” shone a spotlight on the incredible achievements of athletes, coaches, administrators, and media professionals.
From seasoned champions to rising stars, the event highlighted the depth, resilience, and passion that make South African sport so remarkable.
Honouring Legacy and Emerging Talent
The 18th edition of the awards was all about bridging legacy with fresh talent.
The coveted accolades for Sport Star of the Year and Team of the Year went to Tatjana Smith and the 4x100m men’s relay team, who impressed audiences with their performances at the Paris Olympics.
Full List of Winners
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Sport Administrator of the Year: Pholetsi Moseki (Cricket)
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Recreation Body of the Year: Made for More Zama (Para Surfing)
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Sport Volunteer of the Year: Phuti Lekoloane (Football)
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Youth/Junior Sport Star of the Year: Simoné Kruger (Para Athletics)
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Youth/Junior Sport Team of the Year: SA U19 Tug of War Men’s Team (Tug of War)
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Sport Visual Journalist of the Year: Roger Sedres
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Sports Media Journalist of the Year: Palesa Manaleng
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Technical Official of the Year: Ernesta Strydom (Para Cycling)
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National Federation of the Year: South African Rugby Union
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Sport Team of the Year: 4x100m Men’s Team (Paris Olympics)
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Coach of the Year: Rocco Meiring (Swimming)
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Sportswoman of the Year with a Disability: Simoné Kruger (Para Athletics)
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Sportsman of the Year with a Disability: Mpumelelo Mhlongo (Para Athletics)
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Sportswoman of the Year: Tatjana Smith (Swimming)
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Sportsman of the Year: Alan Hatherly (Cycling)
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Sport Star of the Year: Tatjana Smith (Swimming)
A Night to Remember for South African Sport
The awards not only recognized world-class performances but also celebrated the people behind the scenes who keep South African sport thriving.
From coaches to volunteers and journalists, everyone’s contribution was acknowledged, making it a truly inspiring evening.
