South African sportswomen continue to perform at the highest level, and 2026 promises more world-class achievements. Esihle Zondo, a rising water polo star, is focused on improvement, development, and progress this year.
“I would like to improve on skills in the water that I am capable of doing, but definitely can be better at. I want to develop the parts of my game that don’t come to me naturally and obviously progress forward as an athlete and teammate. I am working towards being an asset to any team I am a part of.”
“My main focus outside of my own personal journey is to go with Team South Africa and try win or come in the Top 3 at the World Aquatics World Cup Division 2 competition in April. I am really optimistic about the future of South African water polo and believe that with the group of athletes we have, it makes me believe that we have the potential to make some history.”
The 21-year-old is currently in Barcelona playing for Club Natació Rubí, competing in the “Primera División”, which runs throughout the year. 2026 will be a big one for Zondo as it is round 1 of the World Cup Series in April for South Africa in Malta. The second round takes place in Sydney, Australia, later in the year. The Currie Cup (SA Nationals) will also be held this year, but Zondo will not be taking part as she is out of the country.
“My sports goals are very straightforward: I want to score more goals and be a team player, as well as strengthen my mindset and have more fun. The simpler I keep my goals, the better.”
International Water Polo Star, Esihle Zondo
“I definitely want to keep playing in Europe for the foreseeable future, whether it be in Spain or any other country. My goals are obviously very water polo specific, but I definitely can say the main thing is to consistently show up for myself and the athlete I envision myself to be -in all aspects of my life.”
Zondo says she didn’t have much advice as she is also still learning, but shared one thing that keeps her grateful every day.
“A reminder that has helped me stay positive is to remember how blessed we are to wake up every day and do something that we love. Something that we chose, something that gives us another reason to show up for ourselves and others. I hope everyone has a blessed new year ahead.”
Lindiwe Mchunu also spoke to gsport about what she hopes the new year can bring. The remarkable powerlifter had an exceptional 2025 as she shattered two records at the World Classic Open International Powerlifting Federation Championships in Germany last year.
“In 2025, I had the honour of representing South Africa internationally for the first time at a major competition in Germany, where I competed against some of the world’s top powerlifters. That experience was invaluable, as it exposed me to the demands and expectations of elite international competition.”
“During my debut on the international stage, I broke two records: The African Bench Press record; and the RSA Deadlift record. Achieving this as a first-time international competitor was both motivating and affirming, and it inspired me to raise my standards even further.”
Record-Breaking Powerlifter, Lindiwe Mchunu
“While I am extremely proud of those accomplishments, I view them as a foundation for greater achievements ahead,” she said.
Having only started her participation in the sport in 2023, Mchunu says her hopes and aspirations are firmly rooted in continued growth both in her sport as well as on a personal level.
“I want to continue with high-performance excellence and meaningful representation of South Africa on both national and international platforms. Having been involved in powerlifting since 2023, my journey has been one of rapid learning, discipline, and steady progression. My aim is to further refine my technical ability, strengthen my competitive mindset, and consistently perform at an elite standard. I am also committed to contributing positively to the growth, visibility, and credibility of women’s strength sports.”
#20YearsOfgsport: A Shared Legacy, A Collective Next Chapter
Marking #20YearsOfgsport is a milestone that belongs to every athlete, leader, and advocate who trusted…
‘The Energy of a Live Stadium is Electric’ – Sports Content Creator Akhona Nongauza
Rising vlogger Akhona Nongauza, aka Sports_bunny15, is forging a path as a top sports content…
New Era Loads as Springbok Women and Black Ferns Set for First-Ever Clash in South Africa
History will be made when the Springbok Women face the world-renowned Black Ferns for the…
South African Trailblazers Share Aspirations for the Future of Women’s Sport in 2026
As 2026 kicks off, South African sports trailblazers are calling for a year of resilience,…
Here are the #gsportTop10 Telkom Netball League Players of 2025
The #gsportTop10 Telkom Netball League Players of 2025 celebrate the excellence of stars who showcased…
African Champs Hold World Cup Dreams: The Inspiring Growth of South African Women’s Baseball
After clinching the African title, the self-funded South African Women’s Baseball team is overcoming financial…
Despite Mchunu’s challenges, like acquiring adequate funding, she is still focused on continuing her progress in powerlifting. Her primary focus for her 2026 calendar is the RSA National Championships, which is scheduled to take place in March. This event is of particular importance, as it serves as the qualifying competition for the World Championships 2026.
“With the experience gained from international competition, my preparation for this event is more structured, intentional, and informed, and I am approaching the season with greater confidence and clarity.”
She had this message of hope for her fellow South African sportswomen as they set out to achieve their goals in 2026.
“My message to fellow sportswomen for 2026 is to remain disciplined, patient, and resilient. Trust the process and embrace every learning opportunity, whether in victory or challenge. Progress in sport is built through consistency, perseverance, and belief in oneself. Support one another, remain committed to long-term excellence, and never underestimate what is possible through dedication and hard work.”
Meanwhile, Jayna Bhula is hoping to get more game time in the Esports arena, as 2025 saw her focus on her academics.
“I hope to be more present in the competitive scene. Last year, I was heavily focused on my academics, so I wasn’t able to participate as much as I wanted to. While my studies will still be a priority this year, I’m hoping to have more time to be actively involved. I would also love to see more women entering and succeeding in the scene. Even from the sidelines, it’s been really encouraging to see that growth already happening!”
This year she is aiming to take part in as many Mind Sport South Africa-sanctioned Tekken events as her academic schedule allows, with a particular focus on national team trials and selected provincial/online championships throughout the year.
She hopes 2026 will see her regain her competitive edge as she endeavours to increase her confidence as they will improve her as a player.
“My main goals are to improve as a player, of course, and to reconnect with my passion for the game. I want to commit to proper training again and dedicate myself to a new character that I will feel passionate about. I want to become more confident in my gameplay and grow as a competitor.”
National Esports Competitor, Jayna Bhula
Bhula says in 2026 she hopes to see more women in sport take their rightful place in their various codes.
“Make 2026 your year. Believe in yourself and don’t wait for the perfect moment to put yourself out there; you’ll waste so much time. It’s okay to feel behind, it’s okay to be a beginner, and it’s okay to still be learning. In a male-dominated space, it can feel even harder to struggle publicly, but that shouldn’t stop you. Take small steps, stay consistent, and trust that improvement comes with time! You deserve to be here just as much as anyone else.”
Main Photo Caption: South African sportswomen continue to perform at the highest level, and 2026 promises more world-class achievements. Esihle Zondo, a rising water polo star, is focused on keeping on playing in Europe. All Photos: Supplied
Photo 2 Caption: Lindiwe Mchunu aims to refine her technical ability, strengthen her competitive mindset, and consistently perform at an elite standard.
Photo 3 Caption: Esports star Jayna Bhula advises youngsters to believe in themselves, and not to wait for the perfect moment to action their love for sport.
