Banyana Banyana goalkeeper Kaylin Swart not bothered by critics

Representing JVW FC in the Hollywoodbets Super League, Swart earned the starting goalkeeper position over Andile Dlamini in the FIFA Women’s World Cup in New Zealand and Australia.

Despite Banyana’s historic campaign ending in the round of 16, Swart played in all matches and faced criticism from the fans who favoured Dlamini in goal.

In her interview with SABC Sport, Swart expressed her openness to criticism and emphasized that others' perceptions do not bother her.

READ: Banyana Banyana coach gives Super League review as season draws to close

"I must say in the beginning it was hard, obviously nobody wants to ready all the negativity that is targeted towards you but also obviously my other teammates. At some point in the tournament, we all had the criticism,” Swart said.

“I have no problem with criticism but when it becomes personal and you are judging someone's character and not their ability, I think that's where the line needs to be drawn. I just have a really good group of people around me that supported me throughout the tournament.

“I think the best thing for me was to switch off social media and focus on what we were there for. It was never easy but nothing worth having comes easy, right?"

Regardless of public opinion on whether she should play or not, Swart is determined to pursue her mission of inspiring the next generation of goalkeepers, unfazed by others’ perceptions of her.

"I love what I do and I'm gonna do it regardless of whoever thinks whether I must play or I must retire. If I can inspire the next generation then I've won. I just do everything with a smile on my face even though back home my house is burning but I'll be smiling with you. That's just how I go," Swart added.

The 29-year-old’s current focus is on assisting Banyana in qualifying for the Africa Women’s Nations Cup and the Olympic Games next year.

"To help the team qualify for the Olympics and WAFCON whichever space. Whether I'm playing, on the bench or I'm a spectator supporting my teammates. In any regard, I want to help the team as much as I can.

“Also, just for us to see the progress in the national team. I think all of us would like to call ourselves professionals and once that happens, I think also just having the financial stability in the women's game. I think that’s what I would love to see happen."