PARIS — South African swimmer Tatjana Smith triumphed in the women's 100m breaststroke at the 2024 Paris Olympics, clinching her third Olympic medal and South Africa's first gold of the games. Smith completed the race in 1:05.28 on Monday, enhancing her status as one of the nation's most decorated Olympians.

According to South African Government News Agency, Smith's victory not only adds to her impressive Olympic tally of two golds and a silver but also positions her to potentially match Chad le Clos' record of four Olympic medals. Smith, who is also the reigning champion in the 200m breaststroke, is expected to compete later in the week with high chances of further success.

Nearly 150 athletes are representing South Africa at the Olympics, marking the country's 21st participation in the event, which runs from July 26 to August 11. Smith described her experience during the race, noting that she was unaware of her position for most of the duration and initially doubted her victory due to the close finish.

President Cyril Ramaphosa extended his congratulations to Smith via the social media platform X, celebrating her achievement and expressing anticipation for more outstanding performances from her in the ongoing games.