Meet KG - tennis Paralympian and Discovery Vitality Ambassador

If you haven't yet heard of Kgothatso 'KG' Montjane, that's about to change, as Discovery has just named this homegrown tennis phenomenon a Discovery Vitality Ambassador.

Something of a hidden gem, KG (35) was born in Polokwane with a congenital birth defect that affected both her hands and feet, resulting in an amputation below the left knee at the age of 12. She started playing wheelchair tennis at 19, went pro at 26, and has since won numerous international titles and awards. Check out this video of her greatest achievements so far:

KG has largely flown under the radar - she describes herself as a private homebody who loves spending weekends composing music and playing arcade games. However, we managed to sit her down for an exclusive interview.

Discovery: Thank you for taking the time. Tell us, what was your childhood like? 

It was cheerful. My siblings and I grew up in a huge and crazy household, along with grandparents, cousins and aunts. We were all very close and my parents encouraged us to be who we wanted to be. So despite my disability, my family always made me feel as if I was just like any other kid.

Discovery: You've won multiple sporting awards and captained the South African wheelchair tennis team at the 2019 World Cup. Were you always sporty?

Yes, I attended Helene Franz, a public special needs school in Limpopo, which encouraged kids with disabilities to become independent. I was very active there and took part in everything I could - from ballroom and traditional dancing to table tennis and field athletics.

Discovery: You host an annual Sports Day at your former school, right?

That's right, as part of the NGO I run Montjane Sports Development. We aim to build and improve sports facilities in rural communities. We also co-host an inclusive tennis tournament called the African Grand Slam.

Discovery: It's clear, watching you play, that you relish your serve - all those groundstrokes and backhands make you an aggressive all-court player! What do you love most about wheelchair tennis?

I find the challenge addictive. There are many milestones in wheelchair tennis, and achieving one is a call to aspire to the next. When I train hard, I feel like I'm in a trance - it's such an escape! The goals are forever changing, and I love that. It's what keeps me going.

Discovery: What's a day in your life like?

My days are quite routine - I generally gym in the mornings, which involves strength and power training in the offseason, flexibility training in the preseason, and cardio when competing. I read and recover at home in the afternoons, then train in the evenings until about 20:30. Getting enough sleep is important.

Discovery: Your highest world ranking so far has been No. 5. What's next for you, professionally?

Since I first reached a Doubles Finals at the US Open, I've gained confidence in my goal to win a Grand Slam. So I'm hoping to perform well at the 2021 Australian Open. Of course, my ultimate goal would be to dominate my category and become the number 1 player in the world.

Discovery: Half of all South Africans are overweight or obese, and mental health disorders are on the rise. What advice do you have for those keen to get more healthy?

Look around you and be innovative. Use whatever is in reach - even if it's as simple as 10 minutes of bodyweight exercise or walking - to ensure that your body and system can carry you for the long haul. Pick an activity and be disciplined in practicing it every day. Remember, when it comes to health goals, consistency is what helps you sustain your gains. That takes determination and hard work. A balanced lifestyle is also key. Setting time aside to really recharge will help you focus when you need to work.

Discovery: What inspires you, personally?  

I live by a simple principle: "To whom much is given, much is expected." I think that's something everyone can apply, and be inspired by. It reminds me to always be the best version of myself.

Keep up to date with KG on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.