Tearful Smith switches allegiance to the Netherlands

South Africa's most decorated Olympian Tatjana Smith has announced, in an emotional and tearful statement, that she is switching her international allegiance to the Netherlands. Smith, a swimmer who won a gold and silver medal at each of the past two Olympic Games, made the announcement on November 11, 2026. The switch marks a significant change for the athlete who had been representing South Africa throughout her decorated career.