Montjane aces sports award
Wheelchair tennis star beats off Rabada, Jane
Wheelchair tennis ace Kgothatso Montjane was the big winner on Sunday night at the Gauteng Sports Awards held at Silverstar Casino in Mogale City, where she was crowned the sports personality of the year.
The 32-year-old Montjane beat the likes of cricketer Kagiso Rabada, mountain bike champion William Mokgopo and Banyana Banyana midfielder Refiloe Jane to claim the accolade, which is voted for by sports fans.
This recognition follows Montjane’s great run at Wimbledon – reaching the singles semifinal round and becoming the first South African black woman to play in the grasscourt tournament in London.
Montjane, who is in St Louis for the US Open Super Series tournament that ended on Sunday, could barely contain her emotions after she heard the news.
“Winning this award is everything and obviously it could not have been possible without the help of so many people. I have so many people to thank. Thank you South Africa, for the support!”
The Limpopo-born star travelled to New York yesterday for her fourth US Open Grand Slam tournament, which will be staged at the USTA National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows from 6-9 September.
Montjane becomes the first wheelchair tennis player from Africa to play in all four Grand Slams in a year.
Rising star Alwande Sikhosana, who turned 18 last week Thursday, was named school sports athlete of the year. The grade 12 pupil at Adelaide Tambo Special School in Soweto said he was overwhelmed to receive his first Gauteng Sports Award.
“I am grateful for being given a chance to prove to the world that we as people living with disabilities have the ability in us,” said Sikhosana.