Limpopo Provincial Government recognize Kgothatso Montjane Wimbledon tittle

In recognizing her outstanding performance in the Wimbledon ladies wheelchair doubles title which was held in London, United Kingdom, the Limpopo provincial government hosted a congratulatory dinner to honor Kgothatso Montjane at Meropa Casino and Conference Centre, Polokwane.

The congratulatory dinner was held on the 23rd of July where different sporting codes were represented. Kgothatso’s tennis journey began during her days as a learner at Helen Franz special school, where she was trained for 10 years before enrolling at University of Venda where she studied. Although she hated tennis and was forced to play by Helen Franz educators, with family and educators support , Kgothatso decided to play professionally.

The 38 year old three times grand slam title holder was born with a disorder that affected both her hands and one foot with the other being amputated. Growing up in Ga-Mphahlele and Seshego with no access to tennis facilities, her positive attitude towards life and not seeing herself as a disabled person but, a competent player contributed to her recognition as a best female tennis player.

“The strength I had to conquer the disability as a kid and trying to find my place in the community made me to never see myself as a disabled person. I stand here today as first black South African women to ever win Wimbledon. I’m grateful for being honored for the first time like this by my own province.

Her struggle with securing sponsorship, Kgothatso wants to use her foundation to make an impact which will make a difference to children and people leaving with disabilities. The foundation was established to source sponsorship to assist her to play internationally.

“I want to have an impact on communities, I have learned from my past struggles that it is not easy to ask money for myself, but I can ask assistance to make a difference in the community. It is of importance to give opportunities to kids to play tennis early and not start late like me” said Kgothatso

R290 000 was pledged to Kgothatso Montjane foundation during the congratulatory dinner which will go towards the construction of the tennis court estimated to cost R500 000. The special designed tennis court will give access to those leaving with disabilities to produce talent at an early age, and to pave a professional sports career.

During her address, Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba said she was honored that Kgothatso made her to be the first Premier to hold the Wimbledon trophy.

“I’m really honored to stand before you because your victory is not just a personal triumph, but a celebration for the entire province of Limpopo. If our children can achieve what they have achieved without resources, what more can they achieve if we invest in resources through the department of Sports Arts and Culture we must commit to construct facilities. Your journey is a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work”. Said Dr Ramathuba

Kgothatso’s mother, Margaret Montjane thanked Premier Dr Ramathuba for giving the family support to welcome their daughter on her arrival at the OR Tambo International Airport. EC