Paris Olympics: Team Nigeria captain Anuoluwapo Opeyori gears up to face Tobias Kuenzi
Nigerian badminton player and captain, Anuoluwapo Opeyori is set to begin his campaign at the Paris 2024 Olympics on Tuesday, July 30th. The 27-year-old will face Switzerland’s Tobias Kuenzi in his opening match, scheduled for 6:30 pm CAT.
On Monday, Opeyori expressed his excitement and determination on social media, saying, “First matchday at the 2024 Paris Olympics tomorrow (Tuesday) by 6:30 pm CAT. I’m very sure you guys can tell how excited I am. I will give it nothing but my absolute best.” He further emphasized his commitment in a video post, stating, “It is an honour to represent Nigeria. I have put my heart and soul into training every day and night, and I am happy to represent.”
Opeyori has already made history by becoming the first Nigerian badminton player to qualify for two consecutive Olympic Games.
The Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN) has been instrumental in supporting Opeyori’s journey, including organizing a three-week training camp in Italy in preparation for the Olympics.
BFN President Francis Orbih expressed his pride, noting, “History was made in badminton after Anuoluwapo Opeyori secured a spot at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. I am full of joy because Anu is the first Nigerian badminton player to feature in the men’s singles at the Olympic Games and also the first Nigerian to attend two Olympics back-to-back.”
Following his match against Kuenzi, Opeyori will face China’s Li Shi Feng on Wednesday, continuing his quest for Olympic success.
Recall that Anuoluwapo Opeyori won Nigeria’s first gold medal at the last African Games.
