Reigning African champion Anuoluwapo Opeyori has expressed his determination to defend his men’s singles title at the 2025 African Badminton Championships, which is currently underway in Doula, Cameroon. The 27-year-old Nigerian star, who has dominated the men’s singles event since 2019, is also eyeing victory in the team event, as the competition intensifies.
Opeyori, a two-time Olympic participant, is the most experienced member of Nigeria’s 10-player squad. He will face strong competition as he attempts to extend his impressive streak of consecutive singles titles, which spans from 2022 to 2024.
On Monday, he made a strong start to his campaign, defeating Zambia’s Kalombo Mulenga 13-12, 21-10, 21-12. Speaking to Badminton Africa TV, Opeyori reflected on his preparation and expressed confidence in his ability to retain his title. “My preparation was well executed, and I am now ready for the games ahead. I know the competition will be tough, and I am determined to defend my title,” he said.
Beyond his personal goals, Opeyori, who also serves as the captain of Nigeria’s team for the Paris 2024 Olympics, is focused on leading the Nigerian squad to success in the team event. Nigeria last claimed the team title in 2019, when they hosted the competition.
“We have trained very hard as a team because this time, we want to fight for the gold medal in the team event as well,” Opeyori stated. “This will be a great experience for my team and me. We know that several teams are strong and well-balanced, but we are ready to give everyone a good fight.”
Nigeria is placed in Group C of the team competition alongside 2024 runners-up Mauritius, Zambia, and Equatorial Guinea. Egypt, who defeated Mauritius 2-1 in the tense final of the last edition in South Africa, are the defending champions.
The 2025 African Badminton Championships carries added importance as it serves as the qualification event for the prestigious Sudirman Cup Finals, one of the world’s top mixed-team badminton tournaments.
The tournament runs until February 16, 2025.
Related topic:
Does Badminton Reduce Belly Fat?
Sindhu’s Injury Deals Blow to India’s Badminton Hopes
Azerbaijani Badminton Players Enter World Top 100