South Africa’s Olympic heroes received a rapturous welcome as they touched down at OR Tambo International Airport after their impressive performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics. The atmosphere was electric with jubilant fans, proud families, and government officials eagerly awaiting Team SA’s arrival.

Celebrating a Record Medal Haul

South Africa’s performance in Paris was nothing short of remarkable, with the team doubling their medal count compared to the Tokyo Olympics. This success story is a testament to the athletes’ dedication, hard work, and the unwavering support they receive from the nation.

Swimmer Tatjana Smith shone the brightest, capturing South Africa’s sole gold in the women’s 100m breaststroke and adding a silver in the 200m, showcasing her swimming prowess. The men’s 4x100m relay team and Jo-Ane van Dyk in the women’s javelin contributed two more silver medals. Alan Hatherly secured a bronze in men’s mountain bike cross-country, and the rugby sevens team brought home the final bronze.

The crowd at OR Tambo Airport cheers for matric pupil and Olympic silver medalist Bayanda Walaza, who was one of the four sprinters who helped Team SA secure silver in the Men's 100 4×100 metre relay final.#Olympics2024 #Paris2024 pic.twitter.com/yIDt3kPSJf
— IOL News (@IOL) August 13, 2024

How Much Team SA Earned at the Paris Olympics?

Gold Medal:
- Athlete: R400,000
- Coach: R100,000
Silver Medals:
- Athletes: R200,000 each (for individual events)
- Relay Team: R75,000 per athlete
- Coaches: R50,000 each (for individual events)
- Relay Team Coach: R75,000
Bronze Medals:
- Athletes: R75,000 each (for individual events)
- Rugby Sevens Team: R50,000 per player
- Coaches: R25,000 each (for individual events)
- Team Coach: R50,000

This initiative not only recognizes the athletes’ accomplishments but also provides crucial financial support to help them continue their sporting journey.

Looking Ahead: LA 2028

The Paris Olympics may have concluded, but the journey continues. With the next Summer Olympics set to take place in Los Angeles in 2028, South Africa’s athletes are already setting their sights on new goals. The momentum gained in Paris will undoubtedly fuel their ambition to achieve even greater success on the world stage.