The 1932 Wimbledon Championships marked a historic milestone when Josane Sigart secured the women's doubles title alongside partner Doris Metaxa. This achievement established her as the first Belgian player to capture a Grand Slam trophy, a distinction she held exclusively for more than seven decades until the 2003 French Open.
Professional Tennis Career
Active during the 1930s, Sigart dominated the domestic circuit in Belgium. She claimed the singles title at the Belgian Championships on six separate occasions: 1928, 1929, 1931, 1932, 1936, and 1946. Her performance at the 1932 Wimbledon event also included a mixed-doubles final appearance alongside Harry Hopman. Following her successful 1932 season, the tennis journalist A. Wallis Myers ranked her as the world number 10.
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Take the IQ test →Recognition for Humanitarian Efforts
Beyond her athletic contributions, Sigart is documented for her actions during the Holocaust. Under her married name, Josiane de Meulemeester, she engaged in efforts to save the lives of Jewish people. These activities involved assuming personal risks over an extended period. In 2001, Yad Vashem recognized these contributions by awarding her the title of Righteous Among the Nations.
Life and Legacy
Born in the Brussels metropolitan area in 1909, Sigart maintained Belgian citizenship throughout her life. She died in 1999 at the age of 90. Her legacy is defined by her dual prominence as a pioneering athlete and an individual who provided critical assistance during a period of widespread persecution.
Fast facts
- Born: 1909, Brussels metropolitan area
- Died: 1999
- Nationality: Belgian
- Primary sport: Tennis
- Wimbledon doubles title: 1932
- Belgian singles titles: 1928, 1929, 1931, 1932, 1936, 1946
- World ranking: No. 10 (1932)
- Award: Righteous Among the Nations (2001)
Questions readers ask
Was Josane Sigart the only Belgian to win a Grand Slam for a long time?
Yes, she remained the sole Belgian winner of a Grand Slam title for over 70 years until Justine Henin won the 2003 French Open.
Why was she awarded the title of Righteous Among the Nations?
The award was granted by Yad Vashem in 2001 for her efforts to save the lives of Jewish people during the Holocaust.
Achievements
- Righteous Among the Nations — 2001
- Worked as tennis player
