The president of Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF), Honourable Victor Ochei has hailed the performances of Seun Ogunsakin and Esther Adesina at this year’s Wimbledon Junior Championship in London, with a verdict that they have both ‘shown what can be achieved through unwavering determination.’
Sports247 reports that Ochei also described Ogunsakin and Adesina as young role models who have inspired other Nigerian tennis players to aspire for greatness through purpose, ambition and resilience.
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Ochei noted how Ogunsakin made history with his Botswana partner, Ntungamili Raguin, in reaching the Wimbledon Junior Boys’ Doubles semi-finals, having earlier eliminated the sixth seeds with a 6-4, 7-6(4) victory in the quarter-finals.
Ochei also praised Ogunsakin’s outstanding singles campaign, as the Nigerian youngster became the only African to progress through the qualifying rounds into the main draw after defeating Canada’s Benjamin Azar in straight sets.
Though Ogunsakin eventually lost in the singles opening round to Britain’s Oliver Page, and fell in the doubles semi-finals to top seeds, Luis Guto Miguel of Brazil and Žiga Šeško of Slovenia, Ochei praised him for becoming the first Nigerian to win a Grand Slam main-draw tie since the 1990 Australian Open.
The NTF boss also saluted Adesina, who represents Great Britain but has Nigerian parents, for reaching Wimbledon’s qualifying draw for the first time in her career, which he acknowledged as a source of pride for Nigeria and evidence of the country’s talented heritage worldwide.
“Seun Ogunsakin and Esther Adesina have shown the world what can be achieved through purpose, ambition and unwavering determination. Their performances at Wimbledon have brought immense pride to Nigeria and the African continent.
“While every athlete dreams of lifting trophies, history is often made by those who dare to compete fearlessly on the biggest stages. To Seun, your journey has only just begun. Reaching the semi-finals of a Grand Slam doubles event and breaking long-standing barriers are achievements worthy of celebration.
“Keep believing, keep working and remain focused. The future is incredibly bright. To Esther, your remarkable progress at Wimbledon is equally inspiring. Your success reflects the global excellence of athletes of Nigerian heritage, and we celebrate your achievements with great pride.
“Nigeria is proud of you. Your courage, ambition and determination have inspired millions of young athletes to dream bigger. Continue to fly the Nigerian flag high wherever your careers take you,” Ochei submitted.
