Kgothatso Montjane has made history by becoming South Africa’s first black woman to reach a Wimbledon singles final.
Wimbledon, United Kingdom (10 July 2021) – Kgothatso Montjane hopes she can awaken a whole new generation of wheelchair tennis players after the South African trailblazed her way to two Grand Slam finals at the Wimbledon Championships.
The Limpopo-born athlete – who is currently ranked number 1 in South Africa and number 5 in the World – has made history by becoming South Africa’s first black woman to reach a Wimbledon singles final.
“For me, being out here is all about giving hope to Africans, not only South Africans, because we know how this sport is in our continent,” said Montjane.
“When the young generation sees someone doing well it inspires them to take up the sport. That is my hope, to keep instilling hope and encouraging the next generation to take it up. I also want them to realise that no matter what challenges you face, as long as you want it you can always get it.”
South Africa’s wheelchair tennis star ousted Momoko Ohtani 7-6(3), 4-6, 6-4 to reach her first Wimbledon final, at the All England Lawn Tennis Club, in London, on Friday. In a big-hitting and big-serving affair, it was the South African who created more opportunities, to edge past the Japanese World No.6.
It’s a first Wimbledon final and a first Grand Slam singles final for the Limpopo-born star, who will now face top seed and world No.1, Diede de Groot, from the Netherlands, in Saturday’s final.
Tennis South Africa has been keeping South Africa up to date with posts on their social media.
“Our very own South African tennis ace Kgothatso Montjane will be in action around 14h30 SAST. This time may change depending on earlier matches on the same court. Montjane and her British partner Lucy Shuker will face second seeds Yui Kamiji (Japan) and Jordanne Whiley (Britain) for the Wimbledon crown. The match is likely to be broadcast live in South Africa on SuperSport Channel 210. KG’s singles final is scheduled to be played tomorrow.”
South Africa is so incredibly proud of you. Thank you for waving our flag so high!
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“I am just going to go out there and enjoy my first Grand Slam final and whatever happens, happens. I am looking forward to it,” added Montjane.
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