Born: 1964 (Netherlands)
Biography:
Monique Kalkman-Van Den Bosch, born on November 28, 1964, in the Netherlands, is a Dutch former professional wheelchair tennis and table tennis player. She is widely regarded as one of the most successful and influential athletes in disability sports history. Throughout her career, she competed at the Paralympics in 1984, 1988, 1992, and 1996, leaving an indelible mark on the world of adaptive sports.
Monique’s journey into the world of sports took a remarkable turn at the age of 14 when she was diagnosed with cancer, leading to paraplegia. Despite this life-altering setback, she embraced the sport of table tennis during her childhood, which eventually paved the way for her remarkable ascent in wheelchair tennis. Monique’s unwavering determination, coupled with her exceptional skills, propelled her into the realm of professional sports.
At the age of 20, Monique made her Paralympic debut during the 1984 Summer Paralympics, competing in the table tennis events. Surpassing all expectations, she clinched a gold and a bronze medal, showcasing her immense talent and resilience. However, it was in wheelchair tennis where Monique truly left an indelible mark.
During the 1988 Summer Paralympics, Monique transitioned from table tennis to wheelchair tennis and claimed a gold medal in the women’s singles. It is noteworthy that wheelchair tennis was still a demonstration sport at that time, highlighting Monique’s exceptional skills and pioneering role in popularizing the sport. This victory paved the way for her continued success and dominance in the years to come.
Monique’s shining moment arrived at the 1992 Summer Paralympics, where she stood atop the podium twice, claiming gold medals in both the women’s singles and women’s doubles, alongside her partner Chantal Vandierendonck. This remarkable feat solidified her status as a true icon of disability sports, inspiring countless individuals worldwide.
In addition to her Paralympic success, Monique Van Den Bosch also prevailed in the ITF World Titles, securing the championship title in 1992, 1993, 1994, and 1995. Her consistent performances and unwavering dedication to her craft placed her among the sport’s elite, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.
Following her retirement from competitive wheelchair tennis in 1997 due to paraplegia disease, Monique embarked on a new sporting journey—golf. Advised by her doctors to pursue this leisure activity, she embraced golf with the same tenacity and passion that defined her tennis career. As a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit, Monique founded the Going4Golf foundation, aiming to promote golf among people with disabilities and provide them with opportunities to partake in the sport.
Monique Kalkman-Van Den Bosch’s contributions to disability sports extended far beyond her remarkable achievements on the court. Her unwavering resilience, groundbreaking accomplishments, and unwavering commitment to inspiring others have paved the way for a more inclusive and equitable sporting landscape. In recognition of her unparalleled impact, Monique was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2017, solidifying her status as a true legend in the world of adaptive sports.
Awards:
– Gold Medal, 1988 Summer Paralympics (Wheelchair Tennis Women’s Singles)
– Gold Medal, 1992 Summer Paralympics (Wheelchair Tennis Women’s Singles)
– Gold Medal, 1992 Summer Paralympics (Wheelchair Tennis Women’s Doubles)
– Gold Medal, 1996 Summer Paralympics (Wheelchair Tennis Women’s Doubles)
– ITF World Titles: 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995