Multiple African Men’s Singles Badminton Champion, Anuoluwapo Opeyori has expressed delight qualifying for his second consecutive Olympic Games.
Opeyori dominated Africa in the men’s singles from 2019 till date winning four African Championship titles and two African Games titles.
The two times African Games Champion told www.aclsports.com that despite the lack of motivation, making it to the Olympics for the second time is a dream come true.
He said, “The feeling is unexplainable and I can’t believe I have qualified for the second time. In January, I was still in doubt whether I’ll be in Paris but that was what made the qualification interesting. It was a massive comeback for me, I can’t explain the feeling right now and I have a lot of butterflies in my stomach every time I realize I am going to my second Olympic Games.
“I am dedicated to playing badminton because hard work begath results as well as success; if you work hard opportunities will definitely present themselves. I believe in myself and keep on working despite the hindrances and lack of motivation. I believe in my dream that I am going to grow and make it to the top”.
He lauded the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN) for ensuring he attends international tournaments as well as Olympic qualifier despite the paucity of funds.
The multiple National Champion said, “The Badminton Federation of Nigeria under the leadership of Francis Orbih has been very supportive making sure I attend tournaments despite short notices and low funds. Sometimes, they give works of encouragement to keep me going during tough times and I really appreciate their efforts in making me a priority.
On what the Federal Government of Nigeria can do to assist him ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympic Game, Opeyori said, “The Government can come in through financial support as well as making me a brand ambassador of private companies in order to have enough resources within my reach.
“By now, I should have a physiotherapist, nutritionists and other technical supports; my coaches should be given priority through sending them to refresher course. Once the Government creates an enabling environment for crew including facilities, it’ll be easier for the game to have massive progress”.
