Nigeria’s Weather Affected My Game —Oladele

Oluegun Abidoye spoke with Ololade Ogungbesan, England Born Nigerian player, at the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club, Onikan on her career and feelings about the tourney.

You are a Nigerian, why are you playing for Britain?

Actually, I did not set out to play for Great Britain. I was born there and I started playing there. I love Nigeria as a country but I was not brought up here.

In your first game, you lost consciousness after the match. What really happened?

I did not eat very well before the match and I had exhausted too much energy in the match. It was too hot and sunny and I could not cope with the weather. The game was very tough for me and my opponent. But the most painful part is that I lost the match.

How do you rate the organisation of the tourney?

The organisers are doing a great job here. They put everything in order for the players by providing standard facilities.

I give them pass mark for staging a crisis-free championship.

What attracted you most about the tourney?

I really enjoyed the support of the fans. They always motivate me while playing . They really impressed and encouraged me to put in my best. I will never forget their warm reception.

How does it work for you, having your father as your coach?

It’s nice having my dad as my coach here. He understands me better than any other person.

He discharges his responsibilities adequately and encourages me a lot.

What is your favourite meal and do you understand Yoruba language?

I like jollof rice and plantain, but about the language, I have not been introduced to Yoruba language. I don’t understand it.