Wisers PSA Open: Top Nigerian Players Ask For Support in Pursuing Squash Dream

Two of Nigeria’s squash stars, Gabriel Olufunmilayo (m) and Yemisi Olatunji (f) have both asked that philanthropists and corporate bodies support them in order to take their game to the next level.

The two athletes were champions at the Wiser Squash Open PSA Satellite Tournament that ended on Sunday in Lagos.

The total prize money of the five-day tournament which had US-based Nigerian player, Babatunde Ajagbe as Promoter, was $1,000 (men), and $500 (women).

Satellite tournaments help PSA registered players get valuable ranking points to aid their career.

While 20-year-old Olufunmilayo of Kwara State defeated Lanre Abdulrahaman of Edo State 3-2 to emerge winner in the men's category, Nigeria's squash empress, Yemisi Olatunji, 27, also narrowly edged her sister, Busayo Olatunji 3-2 to be crowned overall winner in the women's class.

Speaking to AllNews after the tournament, Olufunmilayo explained that determination was key to his success.

"It has been God all the way. Without him, I'm nothing. It hasn't been easy, even before the tournament because I'm not in good shape, but the tournament is a PSA-sanctioned tournament, I had to put myself together and make every effort to come so that I can at least make my point,” he told AllNews.

"It not easy right from day one of the tournament due to fatigue. I nearly got beaten in the second round of the tournament due to this.

"I had a very tough semi-final match, but the final match was tougher than I expected. Although I wasn't expecting an easy match with Lanre Abdulrahman because we played the final at the last tournament which wasn't easy at all, but this time around, he went all out but I had to put in all my best to make sure I get over him.

"Sincerely, it was a great battle with Lanre Abdulrahman, but I won 3:2. Big ups to Lanre and I think we gave the crowd a good game to watch.

"I thank God for a great victory, which is also my second championship. I look forward to more wins and I hope to maintain this momemtum.

"Squash is an ‘exclusive’ game that requires a lot of physical strength, mental strength, and total concentration.

"Lastly, I seek sponsorship and support from the lovers of the game in other to keep me in form. I have huge passion for squash and I hope to represent the country at international level."

On her part, Yemisi Olatunji, the world no.136 who is now with Delta State, applauded the organizers of the Wiser Squash Open PSA Satellite Tournament.

"I am happy winning my first PSA Satelite Squash Tournament of the year during this pandemic. This is my second win in 2021," Olatunji told AllNews in an exclusive chat.

"Getting back on the court with my sister after facing different health challenges was a great step up (my sister and I) facing each other in the final was great. To my younger sister (Busayo Olatunji), I love you so much. Thank you for making me proud.

READ ALSO: Squash: Yemisi Olatunji Excited To Be Back In Action After Long 'Holiday' Due To COVID-19

"I'm saying a big thank you to the sponsors and the organizers of this tournament, and I am pleading also to the rest of the sponsors and squash lovers that squash is back, we need your support. 

"To my fans around the world, I love you guys thank you for your prayers and support."