Kgothatso Montjane bags maiden Gram Slam title at French Open

The duo defeated Diede de Groot and Maria Morena with an impressive score of 6-3, 6-2 to claim the Roland Garros crown.

This triumph marked a significant milestone in Montjane’s tennis journey, as she clinched her first-ever Grand Slam title, having previously come agonisingly close to winning the prestigious tournament in 2018, only to fall short in the finals. 

"It was such a great feeling and moment for me. I'm really happy that I managed to win my first Grand Slam, even though it's Doubles, but it's a moment worth living for," Montjane told SABC Sport.

"I think I've just been fortunate to be able to do both Singles and Doubles, so it's an exciting time for me, I just want to take in this moment and start working on fighting for that Singles title that I've been waiting for."

Despite battling a career-threatening tendinitis injury she had been carrying since 2022, the 36-year-old athlete, born in Limpopo, showcased her determination and resilience, and credited the team behind her for supporting her through the highs and lows.

"[Right now] I'm just grateful for the team I have behind me because, if it wasn't for them, I don't know how I would have bounced out of a career-threatening injury," she added.

"Yet, today I'm here talking about a Doubles Grand Slam, and I wouldn't have done it without them, so ja, it's just an exciting moment for me, and thank you."