Angela Okutoyi has disclosed how 100m national record holder Ferdinand Omanyala was instrumental in her historic Wimbledon Grand Slam Girls doubles triumph.
The 18-year-old tennis player credited Omanyala for her maiden Wimbledon success.
Speaking at the Deaflympics award ceremony held in the capital Nairobi on Tuesday, July 12, Okutoyi narrated how Omanyala’s advice and encouragement propelled her to victory.
“I see a bright future for myself. I have been working hard but I know now I have to go the extra mile. I spoke to Omanyala who told me to give 150 per cent and that is what I held on to throughout the tournament,” Okutoyi is quoted by Capital Sports.
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The 2018 Kenya Open winner, playing alongside Netherland’s Rose Nijkamp overcame Canada’s Victoria Mboko and Kayla Cross in straight sets of (6-3, 6-4) to bag the prestigious title.
Okutoyi, who arrived in the country on Monday to a heroic welcome, also disclosed that she learned a lot at the championships staged in London, United Kingdom.
“Although I am taking it positively, I do not want it to get into my head. I know I still have a lot of work to do. Wimbledon was a learning experience for me. No one is there to joke around but is quite competitive,”
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The fast-rising tennis star advised individuals, particularly young people to focus on their goals and dreams.
“I am hoping that it will be an inspiration to many more in Kenya and Africa indeed. It is a message that your background doesn’t matter, rather it is all about remaining focused on your dreams and goals,” stated Okutoyi.
After Wimbledon's success, Okutoyi is expected to take part in the US Open later this year.
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