Pieter Coetze completed a full set of 2022 Commonwealth Games medals when he surged to bronze in the 200m backstroke, adding to his collection of 100m gold and 50m silver in Birmingham.

Coetze pulled a rabbit out of the hat in claiming the 200m backstroke bronze. He turned with 50m to go in lane six in sixth position but blitzed his way down the lane to come home in 29.00, which was 0.95 quicker than gold medallist Brodie Williams.

“I definitely left it a little late, although I’m happy to medal and deliver a PB,” said Coetzé. “I came into the Games, which was my first big one after my Olympics debut last year, aiming to do my best and get close to my PBs. I’ve done that, so I am very chuffed and grateful for the medals.

“ I would have liked to go even faster but coach Rocco Meiring said that when you come to these big Games it’s not about times, it’s about winning medals and making the country proud … I hope I’ve done that.

“Being part of Team SA has been amazing, I’ve learned from them every day in training. Most of them have been here before on this stage. Paris 2024 is the main focus and everything else is a stepping stone. I’ll go back home and see what Rocco and I can do to bring back Olympic gold in 2024.”

At the age of 18, Coetze is still learning how to race. But here he won gold, silver and bronze. Once he gains more experience he’s going to be more than the equal of the best in the world. Paris 2024 could well be his crowning glory.