Kgothatso Montjane(middle), Minister Gayton McKenzie (left) & MEC Jerry Maseko (right) unveil new sports facility in Nkowankowa.
©Kgmontjane Instagram
By: Boitumelo Makhapheetja
From Wimbledon glory to grassroots impact, Kgothatso Montjane is championing change beyond the court.
South African tennis star Kgothatso Montjane has secured another victory, this time by commemorating the start of Women’s month, by unveiling a state-of-the-art tennis and multipurpose sports facility at Letaba Special School in Nkowankowa on Friday 01 August 2025.
Montjane stands as one of the first active South African athletes to personally fund and deliver sports infrastructure while still competing at an elite level.
The new facility is more than just a sports court. It is a symbol of accessibility, pride, and opportunity. Designed for learners with special needs, the project was driven by the Montjane Sports Development Foundation. Montjane emphasises that the space is for all children, whether they aspire to play professionally or simply enjoy recreational activity.
“This isn’t charity – it’s an investment in future champions,” Montjane declared, her voice brimming with emotion as students experienced the new court. “I am living proof that talent can be found everywhere – even in villages like mine. Now these kids have their own Wimbledon right here in Tzaneen, “
The Women’s Month launch was intentional. Montjane, who has shattered barriers in a male-dominated sport, sees it as proof of women’s leadership in community development. “We can build, we can inspire, and we can create lasting change,” she added
The event was graced by Minister of Sport Gayton McKenzie and Limpopo MEC Jerry Maseko, who joined South Africa’s most inspirational sportswoman on stage.
In anticipation of the upcoming US Open, Montjane expressed optimism about the development of sports infrastructure, highlighting that additional facilities are still in the pipeline.