South Africa’s wheelchair tennis star Kgothatso Montjane added another shining chapter to her already distinguished career on Friday, claiming the French Open women’s wheelchair doubles title for a second time with Japanese partner Yui Kamiji after a dramatic comeback win in Paris.
The defending champions overcame a spirited challenge from China’s Xiaohui Li and Ziying Wang, rallying from a set down to win 4-6, 7-5, [10-7] in a tense final played on Court 7 at Roland Garros.
For Montjane and Kamiji, this marks their fourth Grand Slam doubles title together, having previously clinched the 2023 French Open, 2023 US Open, and the 2024 Wimbledon crown. Their partnership, forged in 2022, has grown into one of the most formidable pairings in the women’s wheelchair game.
Friday’s final proved their mettle. After dropping the first set, the experienced duo clawed their way back with poise and persistence. They edged a tight second set before sealing victory in the deciding match tiebreak, showcasing their resilience under pressure and their deep understanding on court.
Montjane, 39, hailing from Seshego, Limpopo, has long been a trailblazer for wheelchair tennis in South Africa. While her singles campaign ended in the semifinals with a defeat to world No. 2 Aniek van Koot of the Netherlands, her doubles triumph reaffirms her place among the elite in global wheelchair tennis.
This French Open also saw fellow South African Donald Ramphadi in action. Partnering with Turkey’s Ahmet Kaplan, the pair finished runners-up in the men’s quad wheelchair doubles, going down in straight sets (3-6, 4-6) to Israel’s Guy Sasson and Dutch standout Niels Vink. Ramphadi’s singles campaign ended in the quarter-finals against top seed Sam Schroder of the Netherlands.
In the able-bodied draw, South Africa’s Lloyd Harris exited in the first round after a four-set loss to Andrey Rublev, the world No. 15.
Still, it was Montjane’s latest Grand Slam feat that headlined South Africa’s presence in Paris — a display of grit, skill and unwavering determination that continues to inspire. Her journey is a testament to excellence forged through years of dedication, and her triumph ensures the South African flag flies proudly once again at one of tennis’s grandest stages.
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