In the realm of African and South African badminton, there is one name that stands out above the rest. At just 24 years old, Johanita Scholtz has etched her name as the continents top Female Badminton player, bringing home golds, and earning a coveted spot at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Her story, a tale of passion ignited at the age of four, perseverance through injuries, and a fierce dedication to excellence, is one of triumph.
Early Life
Born on January 25, 2000, in Cape Town, South Africa, Scholtz’s badminton journey began in the small town of Oranjemund, Namibia, where her parents still reside. At just four years old, she would accompany her mother to social squash games. “I remember hearing strange sounds from the building next door. Curious, I walked in and watched kids playing badminton. A coach handed me a racket, and from the first shot, I was hooked—and I haven’t stopped since,” she recalls.
By 13, Scholtz was making waves in Namibia’s junior badminton scene, representing the country at various tournaments. During one such event, Johan Kleingeld, a prominent Free State coach, noticed her talent. Impressed by her natural ability, Kleingeld approached Scholtz and her family, encouraging her to train at his high-performance academy. “It was a big decision,” Scholtz reflects. “I was only 12, but I knew that if I wanted to take badminton seriously, this was the next step.” In 2014, she moved to Free State.
By 14, badminton was no longer a hobby—it had become her life. Training under Kleingeld alongside high-performance athletes, many competing internationally, shifted her perspective. “Everyone around me was chasing the same goals,” she says. “That’s when I realized I wanted to chase those goals too.”
Badminton Career and Olympics Qualification
Scholtz rose swiftly through the badminton ranks, claiming every national title from under-13 to senior level. At 14, she won her first African junior title, and at 18, her first senior African title. Her international debut at the 2018 Commonwealth Games set the stage for a career marked by resilience and ambition.
The African Games became her proving ground. In 2019, she stunned the competition in Casablanca, Morocco, capturing gold in women’s singles and earning two bronze medals in team and doubles events. Four years later, at the 2023 African Games in Ghana, she defended her title with a dramatic comeback against Uganda’s Husina Kobugabe, cementing her status as Africa’s top player.
“That moment was special. It showed me how far I’d come,” Scholtz reflects. “Winning back-to-back titles felt like validation for all the sacrifices I’ve made.” The road to Olympic qualification tested her resolve like never before. Over the course of 10 intense months, Scholtz traveled to 20 countries, often spending just a week in each, competing against the best players from across the globe.
“We were five girls in the running to qualify, and in the final month, any one of us could have made it,” she recalls. “The stress and pressure of those last few tournaments affected performance and tested us in every possible way. But I’m so grateful for this year—it created the best memories and friendships. I’d recommend the experience to anyone. It’s about applying all the tools you’ve gained through experience and hard work—and bringing them to the court when it matters.”
Her bronze medal at the 2024 African Championships in Cairo, while not gold, carried profound significance. It was the final step that secured her spot at the Olympics. “When I saw my name on the list, I felt nothing but relief,” Scholtz admits. “There’s so much pressure to qualify, and when it finally happened, I was overwhelmed with joy.”
The Olympic Experience
For Scholtz, the Paris Olympics marked the pinnacle of her career—fulfilling a dream she had nurtured since the age of 12. As a young girl, she vividly remembers sitting in front of the TV, watching South Africa’s top doubles team compete at the 2012 Games.
“I remember telling myself, ‘One day, that’s going to be me.’ It’s surreal that it actually happened,” Scholtz shares. The moment she stepped onto the court for her first group match in July 2024 was deeply emotional.
“Ten minutes before the match, it hit me—I was at the Olympics,” she recalls. “I bawled my eyes out, but as soon as I walked into the arena and heard the crowd, I couldn’t stop smiling. I just felt privileged to be there.” All the nerves vanished as passion and determination surged through her. Scholtz describes the sensation as indescribable—a mix of adrenaline and disbelief.
“It’s like walking through a tunnel and suddenly stepping into a dream-like state. But then you realize it’s not a dream—you’re already awake,” she says. “Those 10 seconds are worth every sacrifice. It’s a feeling I’d fight for again, just to experience it once more.”
One of the most unforgettable moments of her Olympic experience came after her final match. “I turned around to thank the crowd, and the entire arena erupted in cheers,” Scholtz recalls. “Goosebumps ran across my whole body, and I couldn’t stop smiling. In my mind, I thought only the top players or famous athletes get that kind of response. I never expected the crowd to acknowledge me like that. It was next level—something I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life.”
The Training Required
Scholtz’s training routine mirrors the intensity she brings to competition. Training five days a week for up to five hours per session, she combines gym workouts, on-court drills, and fitness routines to maintain peak performance.
“I focus on being the fittest and strongest version of myself,” Scholtz explains. “Badminton is about endurance and mental toughness. The longer you can stay on the court, the better you become.”
For Scholtz, success isn’t just physical—it’s also mental. “We simulate high-pressure scenarios in practice, like being down match point and fighting back,” she shares. “At the Olympics, instead of feeling intimidated, I saw it as a chance to measure my game against the best.”
Her preparation is methodical and strategic. Scholtz keeps detailed notes on her opponents, crafting tailored game plans for each match. “I document their strengths and weaknesses and use every match—win or lose—as a learning opportunity. This mindset keeps me focused on improvement and the next step.”
The challenge of the Olympics was particularly exciting for Scholtz. “I had the hardest pool but saw it as an opportunity to test my level. I played my role models and gave them a run for their money,” she says with a smile.
Adaptability is a cornerstone of Scholtz’s game. “I walk on court with a plan, but if it benefits my opponent, I switch to plan B or C. Training for different styles helps me adapt quickly. At first, it’s tough, but experience makes the shift faster.”
Her coach plays a vital role, offering motivation and strategy. “Before every game, we analyze my opponent’s strengths and weaknesses and create a tailored plan. No two strategies are the same.”
Adding humor to her discipline, Scholtz shares a quirky ritual. “I always wear mismatched socks. If they match, I turn one inside out. It’s my thing—it might even be part of the secret to my success,” she jokes.
Scholtz’s dedication to both the physical and mental aspects of her game continues to drive her toward even greater achievements.
Fueling for Success: Scholtz’s Approach to Nutrition
In addition to her rigorous training, Scholtz places great emphasis on nutrition, recognizing its critical role in performance and recovery. “I’ve always been a healthy eater—I genuinely love the taste of clean food,” she says. “Fueling for training and competition is all about finding what works for me and sticking to it.”
Her passion for healthy eating stems from her upbringing. “I grew up with a mother who was always searching for healthier options, and I embraced it. Bring me a salad, and you’ll see the biggest smile on my face,” she laughs. “Even at school, my friends used to tease me for eating tomatoes like apples during breaks.”
Arriving in Paris for the Olympics felt like a perfect match for her preferences. “Everything was steamed or grilled—not fried—and it felt like paradise. There were options for every need. You had pasta and carbs to fuel up, but also plenty of salads to stay lean. It made it easy to prepare nutritionally for each match.”
Overcoming Setbacks: Scholtz’s Road to Recovery
No athlete’s journey is without setbacks, and for Scholtz, injuries have been a significant challenge. “Injuries are often the biggest hurdle,” she reflects. “I tore the ligaments in my right ankle and suffered two bone fractures just before an African tournament where I was set to represent South Africa. It took me a full year to regain my strength, confidence, and compete at the same level.”
The injury coincided with an unexpected global pause due to COVID-19. “Dealing with an injury is tough because your opponents keep improving while you’re sidelined,” she explains. “But when COVID hit, the world came to a standstill. It gave me the time to recover fully and ease back into training as things reopened.”
Scholtz credits this unexpected break with helping her manage the setback, allowing her to return to the court stronger and more determined than ever.
Equipped for Success: Scholtz’s Partnership with Yonex and Discover Sport
Scholtz’s journey is supported not only by her dedication but also by the equipment she trusts to perform at the highest level. “I’m fortunate to have a sponsorship with Yonex, which provides me with top-quality rackets, bags, shoes, and clothing throughout the season,” she says. “They guide me every step of the way, and I get to choose gear that suits my preferences.”
Her admiration for the brand makes the partnership seamless. “I’ve always loved Yonex, so there’s not much I feel the need to change. I’m grateful for the equipment and the opportunity to upgrade each year with their latest merchandise,” Scholtz adds.
Another sponsor, Discover Sport, has been incredibly supportive, and I’m deeply grateful for their backing. They operate a platform dedicated to giving athletes recognition and helping them grow their brand and their sport, no matter the discipline.
Next Steps and Goals: Scholtz’s Vision for the Future
As Scholtz looks ahead, her passion for badminton remains unwavering, with her eyes set on new milestones and a desire to give back to the sport that shaped her. “My future goals include passing on my experience to the next generation—maybe through coaching,” she shares. “I’d also love another shot at LA 2028. Who wouldn’t want to go to LA?” she laughs. “Coaching is definitely part of my long-term plan.”
In the near term, Scholtz is focused on the next four years, aiming to compete at the World Championships, defend her African titles, and pursue another Olympic run.
Reflecting on what sets her apart as an athlete, Scholtz credits her blend of focus, adaptability, and resilience. “I stay calm under pressure and can quickly adjust to different situations. My drive to keep improving and push past my limits is what makes the difference,” she says.
Her passion for badminton, cultivated over two decades, continues to fuel her ambitions.
“I’ve been playing since I was four and have never felt bored or tired of it,” she explains. “Badminton demands quick decisions and constant learning. Even after 20 years, I discover something new every day—whether from coaches, athletes, friends, or family. Just when you think you’ve mastered the sport, a new challenge emerges.”
For Scholtz, the journey ahead is driven by the same dedication that brought her this far, ensuring her story in the sport is far from over.
Life Beyond the Court: Scholtz’s Creative and Community Spirit
While Scholtz’s badminton achievements are remarkable, her life off the court is equally inspiring. Married to her high school sweetheart and living in Bloemfontein, she pursued a degree in fashion design, a field that channels her artistic side. “I’ve always been drawn to art and creativity,” she shares. “Fashion allows me to express that part of myself.”
Alongside her athletic career, Scholtz teaches art at a fashion academy and collaborates with a children’s organization, designing clothes to raise funds for orphanages. She also serves as an ambassador for Kuumba, a project dedicated to protecting and providing educational opportunities for children.
“Giving back is important to me,” Scholtz says. “I want to inspire the next generation, not just through badminton, but by showing them how to make a difference in their communities.” Through Kuumba’s presence on the Badisa Facebook page, she actively promotes its mission and engages with the cause.
Personal Life and the Power of Support
Though she doesn’t have children yet, Scholtz jokes that her animals fill that role. She attributes much of her success to the unwavering support of her family, coach, and community.
“My coach, Johan Kleingeld, has been the most influential mentor in my career. He’s been with me for 10 years, planning everything and predicting that 2024 in Paris would be my qualifying year,” she reflects. “His belief in me never wavered.” Her family also played a crucial role, supporting her passion from the days it was just a hobby to her rise to the highest levels of competition.
“My support system was incredible. My family believed in me from the start, and my teammates trained alongside me with their own goals—maybe not for 2024, but for 2028 and beyond,” she says.
When Scholtz qualified for the Olympics, the outpouring of support highlighted her community’s strength. “The day I qualified, it felt like everyone qualified with me. It was a shared victory,” she recalls with a smile.
Lessons from Badminton: Inspiring the Next Generation
For Scholtz, badminton has been more than a competitive pursuit—it has shaped her life, instilling values she hopes to pass on to the next generation. “Badminton is such a social sport, even at the highest level. It brings family and friends together, creating a community that feels like family,” she reflects.
Her journey began at 12, inspired by South Africa’s top doubles pair at the time. “I remember being that little girl, dreaming of becoming like them. Now, knowing I’ve reached that level, I hope to inspire the next 12-year-old to dream as I did,” Scholtz says. “At the time, it felt impossible—but now I know it wasn’t. That’s the message I want to share: a dream becomes reality when you start working for it.”
Scholtz is driven to uplift and inspire young athletes, showing them what dedication and perseverance can achieve.
“I want young players to see that growth never stops,” she says. “More than anything, I hope to be a positive influence for those coming up in the sport. One day, when I step away, I’d love to see them grow into top athletes—not just for me, but for all the fans who believe in them.”
Through her career and character, Scholtz aims to leave a lasting mark on badminton, inspiring the next generation to chase their dreams and turn them into reality.
For More South African Sport News: Sport South Africa Home Page
