🏃♀️🚀 All Eyes on Tobi Amusan: Can the World Record Holder Dominate Atlanta’s 100m Hurdles?

The track and field world is buzzing with anticipation as Nigeria’s sprint superstar Tobi Amusan gears up for her next big challenge: the Adidas Atlanta City Games women’s 100m hurdles on May 18. Fresh off a blistering season-best 12.66 seconds at the Diamond League meet in Xiamen, China, just a week ago, Amusan is poised to turn heads once again—this time on American soil.  

### 🔥 A Season of Momentum  

Amusan’s performance in China wasn’t just a win—it was a statement. Clocking 12.66s, the fastest time of her 2024 campaign so far, she proved she’s shaking off any lingering pressure and honing her form at the perfect moment. For context, that time would have secured gold at the 2023 World Championships, underscoring her lethal consistency. But Atlanta presents a new stage, new rivals, and a chance to solidify her status as the one to beat ahead of the Paris Olympics.  

### 🌍 The World Record Holder Returns  

Since shattering the 100m hurdles world record with an otherworldly 12.12s at the 2022 World Championships, Amusan has carried the weight of expectation with grace. Though her 2023 season saw battles with injuries and off-track challenges, her Xiamen victory signaled a return to peak shape. Now, as the reigning Diamond League champion and a global icon for African athletics, Atlanta offers her a platform to electrify fans and intimidate competitors.  

### 🏟️ Atlanta City Games: What’s at Stake?  

The Adidas Atlanta City Games, held on a temporary track in Centennial Olympic Park, is a unique meet blending elite competition with festival vibes. For Amusan, this marks her first race on U.S. soil this season—a critical opportunity to test her speed against a stacked field. Expect fierce competition from rivals like American speedsters Alaysha Johnson (12.40s PB) and Nia Ali (12.34s PB), who’ll be eager to challenge Amusan’s dominance.  

But the Nigerian star thrives under pressure. Known for her explosive starts and flawless technique over the barriers, Amusan’s ability to maintain composure in tight races makes her a nightmare for competitors. A win in Atlanta wouldn’t just extend her 2024 win streak—it would send a thunderous message to the world: She’s ready for Paris.  

### 🎯 Why This Race Matters  

With the Olympics just months away, every race is a stepping stone. Amusan’s 12.66s in China showed she’s nearing her world-record-breaking form, but trimming those fractions of a second further could cement her as the gold-medal favorite. Atlanta’s flat track and potential for ideal sprinting conditions might even give her a shot at dipping below 12.5s—a psychological barrier for her rivals.  

### 👀 How to Watch & What to Expect  

- Date: Saturday, May 18, 2024  

- Time: Women’s 100m Hurdles scheduled for 7:15 PM ET  

- Broadcast: Peacock (U.S.) and international streaming platforms.  

Fans should watch for Amusan’s trademark fast start and her mid-race acceleration. If she clears the hurdles cleanly, the race could be over by the seventh barrier. But don’t count out the Americans—Johnson and Ali will push her to the limit.  

### 💬 Final Thoughts  

Tobi Amusan isn’t just racing for victory in Atlanta—she’s racing for legacy. Every stride she takes this season builds toward her Olympic destiny, and a dominant performance here could ignite her campaign for gold in Paris. Whether she breaks records or simply breaks spirits, one thing’s certain: The world will be watching. 

🇳🇬 Will Tobi Amusan light up Atlanta? Share your predictions below! 👇  

#TobiAmusan #RoadToParis #100mHurdles #AtlantaCityGames #TrackAndField #NigeriaToTheWorld 🚀

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‎Team Nigeria is on fire in Casablanca, delivering one of the most historical performances in the Senior African Wrestling Championships. Our female wrestlers are rewriting the record books with an intensifying dominance on the mat.

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‎Golden Queens Reign Supreme

‎The women’s freestyle team has been simply unstoppable:

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‎Day 1: 4 female wrestlers entered the finals with 4 gold medals secured.

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‎Day 2: Another 5 stepped up with another 5 gold medals earned.

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‎That’s 9 gold medals from 9 female competitors. An undisputable  performance.  A statement to the entire continent that Nigerian women wrestlers are a force to reckon with!

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‎Day 2 Champions:

‎Genesis Mercy – GOLD in 50kg

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‎Idris Khadijat – GOLD in 55kg

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‎Adekoye Jumoke – GOLD in 59kg

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‎Mughenbifa Ebipatei – GOLD in 65kg

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‎Biogos Ebi – GOLD in 72kg

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‎These phenomenal women have earned their place in history with their strength, and skill ,they have not only brought glory to Nigeria, but inspired a generation of young female athletes across Africa.

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‎Men’s Freestyle: Rising to the Challenge

‎While the women have swept gold, our male wrestlers are stepping up with powerful performances of their own:

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‎Newlife Ebikeme (92kg) – advances to the final

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‎Stephen Simon Izolo (65kg) – through to the final, looking to make history

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‎Adebayo Tope (70kg) – battling for bronze

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‎Andrew Ebierelayefa (74kg) – fighting for bronze

Jackson Oluwafemi was the male captain who captain the team to victory 

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‎The energy in Casablanca is ground-breaking. The green and white is flying high. With medals already pouring in and more still up for grabs, Team Nigeria is on a mission,and nothing seems able to stop them.

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‎This is more than wrestling. This is national pride. This is the rise of champions.

‎   Wrestling is simply a Gold in Africa!.

 Nigerian women are making a powerful statement in the highly competitive US collegiate wrestling scene.  Their skill, dedication, and sheer grit are not only earning them top rankings and championship titles but also putting Nigerian wrestling on the global map.  These athletes are rewriting the narrative, one match at a time, and inspiring a new generation of wrestlers back home.

A Showcase of Talent and Determination

The US collegiate wrestling circuit is a proving ground for future Olympic and world champions.  It demands a high level of athleticism, strategy, and mental fortitude.  Nigerian women wrestlers are not just competing; they're excelling.  Their recent triumphs are a testament to their hard work and the growing strength of wrestling in Nigeria.

Meet the Champions:

  Adekoye Jumoke (Dickinson State University): Jumoke has consistently demonstrated her prowess in the 131-pound weight class.  Her technical skills and resilience have earned her national recognition, including a No. 2 national ranking earlier this season.  While a tough semifinal match at the Grand View Open against fellow Nigerian Mercy Adekuoroye presented a challenge, Jumoke's potential for future success remains undeniable.

  Christianah Ogunsanya (William Penn University): Ogunsanya has been on a dominant streak in the 117-pound division.  Garnering both Heart of America Athletic Conference and NAIA "Wrestler of the Week" honors speaks volumes about her impact.  Her championship win at the Grand View Open solidified her position at the top of the rankings, claiming the No. 1 spot.  Ogunsanya's explosive style and strategic approach make her a force to be reckoned with.

  Esther Kolawole (William Penn University):  Kolawole has established herself as a dominant figure in the 138-pound class.  Known for her agility and tactical brilliance, she has become a key player for her team.  Her dedication to excellence not only brings her individual accolades but also inspires her teammates to strive for greatness.

  Mercy Adekuoroye (Wayland Baptist University): A three-time African Senior Champion, Adekuoroye brings a wealth of experience to the collegiate circuit.  Her commanding performance at the Grand View Open, including a victory over then-No. 2 Adekoye Jumoke and a subsequent win in the finals, propelled her to the No. 2 ranking in the 131-pound division.  Adekuoroye's blend of experience and tenacity makes her a top contender for national titles.

 A Rising Tide Lifts All Boats

The success of these Nigerian women wrestlers is more than just a collection of individual achievements. It represents a collective triumph for Nigerian wrestling.  Their presence in the US collegiate sports system, a hotbed for developing world-class talent, showcases the depth of talent emerging from Africa.  Coaches and analysts have praised their work ethic, adaptability, and ability to thrive in a highly competitive environment.

Looking Ahead

As the season progresses toward the NAIA National, all eyes will be on these trailblazing athletes.  Their journeys are not only inspiring aspiring wrestlers in Nigeria but also signaling a bright future for the nation in international wrestling.  With their sights set on national titles and beyond, Adekoye Jumoke, Christianah Ogunsanya, Esther Kolawole, and Mercy Adekuoroye are not just competing; they are paving the way for future generations of Nigerian wrestlers.  They are rewriting the narrative, one pin, one victory, and one ranking at a time.  Their story is one of grit, determination, and ultimately, triumph.

In a open conversation, Coach Olalehin Oluwatunmise Oluwatosin, the Badminton Head Coach of Ondo State, National Junior Coach in Nigeria, and Badminton World Federation Certified Level 1 Coach, shared his inspiring journey, challenges, and vision for the sport.

Meet Coach Olalehin

"Good morning, my name is Olalehin Oluwatunmise Oluwatosin. I'm the Badminton Head Coach of Ondo State, National Junior Coach in Nigeria, and a Badminton World Federation Certified Level 1 Coach."

The Impact of Coaching

"Being a coach has been a great profession that has impacted me in terms of popularity, financial stability, traveling, and exposure. It's been an incredible journey, and I'm grateful for the opportunities I've had."

Debunking the popular opinion: Badminton's Value

"Some people believe badminton isn't a sport that brings rewards. However, I disagree. The issue lies in our country's one-sided approach to sports. Nevertheless, badminton has still managed to provide for us and is a complete sport with numerous benefits."

Growing the Sport

"To bring more people into the game, I focus on training and winning laurels. Success breeds interest, and that's the only way to convince investors and attract new players. Ondo State has a rich history of producing badminton champions, and I'm committed to continuing that legacy."

Overcoming Challenges

"The greatest challenge I've faced is when my family thought I was wasting my time. Some players also showed ungrateful attitudes. However, I overcame these obstacles by believing in myself and my passion for the sport. Despite financial and family problems, I persevered, and my dedication paid off."

The Future of Badminton

"Badminton is an Olympic sport, and its popularity is growing. The fact that badminton players were the captains of all athletes at the last Olympics game demonstrates its significance. I'm optimistic about the future of badminton in our country."

Managing Academics and Sports

"My athletes, mostly students, face challenges balancing academics and sports. To cope, we create personalized training schedules, ensuring they can manage their time effectively. For those in higher institutions or schools far from Akure, we utilize technology for remote training and monitoring."

Coach Olalehin's inspiring story, dedication, and passion for badminton are a testament to the sport's transformative power. As he continues to nurture champions and grow the sport, his legacy will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the world of badminton.

🚨🚨EXCLUSIVE :Joseph Yobo [Former Nigeria captain and Defender ] has openly encouraged Victor Osimhen to join Manchester United: 

“For me, it’s a no-brainer. Victor and Manchester United are a perfect fit, and there’s no doubt, he  would thrive there if they signed him. Manchester United remains one of the top three biggest clubs in the world. That won’t change anytime soon. If you ask me, I’ll be honest: Victor should take the offer if United tables the bid

“Their project is exciting with a new coach in Amorim. If Amorim trusts Victor to be one of the leaders of this project, which is still under transition, then yes, I think he shouldn’t think twice - he should take it up.”

 Victor Osimhen is a player that fits United style and having him as a frontman would help the Premier league giant. 

The future of Nigerian tennis just got a whole lot brighter! The Rock Tennis Foundation has officially opened its brand-new tennis facility in Ilara, Ogun State, and the excitement is palpable. The facility's opening ceremony was attended by Wasiu Isiaka, the Ogun Sports Commissioner, who was full of praise for the Rock Tennis Foundation and its founder.

According to Isiaka, the new facility aligns perfectly with the state's plans to develop sports and create a lasting legacy for the National Sports Festival.

 "We're not just building an event; we're building a sports ecosystem in Ogun State," he emphasized. The commissioner also highlighted the government's significant investments in sports infrastructure, including the development of a Games Village in Abeokuta.

The Royal Father of the day, Oba (Dr.) Mutiu Adedimeji Oyede-Lawal, Oloola of Ilara, was beaming with pride as he thanked the Rock Tennis Foundation for bringing this fantastic facility to Ilara. "We're grateful for this wonderful gift," he said.

But that's not all! The Rock Tennis Foundation also organized a tennis clinic for young tennis enthusiasts in the community and presented them with tennis kits and gift items to help them kick-start their tennis journey.

Next up, attention will shift to the flagship event of the Rock Tennis Foundation at the Abeokuta Sports Centre, where the annual junior tennis competition and clinic will take place from January 9 to 11, 2025. Mark your calendars, tennis fan

The excitement is building as the Nigerian junior tennis team gathers at the National Stadium in Lagos, preparing for the ITF/CAT West & Central African Junior Tennis Championships. Held in Lome, Togo, this prestigious tournament kicks off this weekend, and Nigeria's talented young players are ready to serve up a storm.

With a strong contingent of Boys and Girls' U-14 & 16 teams, Nigeria has its sights set on qualifying for the Main AJC later this year. The pressure is on, but the team is confident in their abilities.

Leading the charge is Chukwudubem Amasiani, Nigeria's highest-ranked junior player. Alongside experienced teammate Seyi Ogunsakin, Amasiani will be looking to make a strong impact in the U-14 boys' category.

As the team takes to the courts in Togo, Nigeria Tennis Live will be keeping a close eye on their progress. Stay tuned for updates, insights, and all the action from the tournament.

Will Nigeria's young tennis stars shine bright in Togo? We can't wait to find out!

©Nigeria Tennis Live