Fast-rising Nigerian Tennis Sensation, Uchenna Oparaoji, has told Wakawaka Sports Extra that he aims to be at the global stage in the International Tennis Federation, ITF.
Oparaoji, who survived an accident two years ago and came back gun-blazing said it was a miraculous recovery to be back in the court.
The Imo-born Tennis star won all the available laurels ranging from the National Sports Festival in Delta State to other invitational tournaments.
He therefore appealed for sponsorship to take his game higher adding that Coach James Anukam has played a pivotal role to his growth in the game.
Interestingly, the Federal Road Safety Corps officer revealed that he does not indulge in taking alcohol, womanizing and other social ills that will affect his game.
“Last two years was very tough. When I had an accident for like 4-6 months, I couldn’t play a game. I had to rest and treat myself. But I thank God for everything. I came back early this year and played some games and lost.
“I thought all hope was lost. I went home and called my Coach James. He told me that you had an accident and over like 8 months, you have not touched the racket. I had to calm down and pray that everything will be okay.
“I started all over again and started jogging, training, going to gym. Last six months, I won the top 8 in Lagos, I won the second one and the third one. I have won top 8, three straight times.
“From there l went to the National Sports Festival in Delta State, I won there and went to Rainoil in Lagos and won too. I give God thanks for everything. It means that am now coming up and back again.
“If you have the resources to sponsor me, I will be very glad because right now I don’t want sponsors. I need them to be with me so that I would play ITF outside Nigeria.
“The secret behind my game is being fit and discipline. I don’t take alcohol, womanize or go to club. I love jogging. That’s why am fit. I don’t take drugs.
“My coach played a huge role because he was the one that taught me how to play tennis. He always encouraged me even when I was down. He has been there even when I lost, he will tell me to keep on pushing. He is my dad and part of me.”
