Abdul-Mumin Babalola, former Nigerian number one tennis player, is making a powerful return to the sport with a mission to revive tennis in Oyo State. Currently, Babalola is organizing a three-day Junior Boys and Girls Tennis Tournament, from February 27 to March 1, for tennis starlets in the state, aged 13 to 16.
The tournament, which is drawing attention across the state, is part of his larger goal to foster the next generation of tennis talent while giving back to the city that helped shape his career.
Now based in China following his retirement from competitive tennis, Babalola is calling on the government to step in and help sustain the sport of tennis in the Pacesetter State.
Babalola, who has deep personal ties to Ibadan, where his tennis journey began, is concerned that the sport is slowly fading in the state. “Tennis is at a crossroads in Oyo State, and we need urgent support from the government to bring it back to life,” he explained.
He specifically mentioned the role of Governor Seyi Makinde, who is also a tennis enthusiast, as pivotal in rejuvenating the sport. “Governor Makinde has always been a father figure to the sports community in Oyo State, and as someone who understands tennis, his support could make all the difference in encouraging young players,” Babalola said, urging the government to take decisive action.
The 1st Oyo Closed Junior Boys and Girls Tennis Tournament is more than just a competitive event; it’s Babalola’s way of giving back to Ibadan and the larger Oyo State community that helped nurture his career. “Ibadan is where I started, and it feels right to come back and give back to the city that made me who I am today,” Babalola shared.
He believes this initiative is only the beginning and aims to provide greater opportunities for young players in the future. “The goal is to inspire and create a foundation for young players to excel in tennis, just as I did.”
As the tournament ends on Sunday, Babalola’s confidence in its potential is clear. “I am confident that this tournament will not only reignite interest in tennis but will also encourage the younger generation to take up the sport. The second edition is going to be a ‘BOOM,’ and I believe with government support, tennis in Oyo State can truly flourish again.”
