Lawn tennis player Olabode Lawal, representing Lagos State at the ongoing National Sports Festival, remains hopeful despite losing in the second round of his singles match. Speaking to Sports247 at the tennis court in Abeokuta, Lawal shared his thoughts on the tournament and his journey so far.
“I’m so happy to be representing Lagos,” Lawal said. “It wasn’t easy getting here—I had to win the trials first. I’m playing as the number one for my team, and even though I lost in the second round, I believe I’ll come back stronger in the next festival.”
Though his singles run ended early, Lawal isn’t done yet. He still has the team event, doubles, and mixed doubles ahead.
“This is just the beginning. I feel like we can still take a medal home,” he added.
As of the time of the interview, Lagos had yet to secure a medal in lawn tennis, but Lawal remains focused on his goals. “I just want to be among the medalists. That’s my dream here.”
For Lawal, being selected to represent Lagos at the festival is already a big achievement. “It’s not easy to make it into the team.
Many of my mates didn’t get the chance. So being here alone means a lot. I lost my first match, but I’ll keep working hard.”
When asked about how he prepares for matches, Lawal said warming up is key. “I’m a late starter, so if I don’t warm up properly, it affects my game. But once I do, I play well.”
Mentally, he stays ready through self-motivation. “I just talk to myself, remind myself that this is something I know how to do, and then go do it.”
Though music isn’t a major part of his routine, he acknowledges its role for others. “People say you should listen to music before playing, but for me, it’s not really a thing. I just focus on the game.”
Lawal also spoke about the support from fans and how much it means to him. “I love it when people are cheering me on.
It gives me energy. So I just want to tell them—keep supporting me. I know I’ll do better in my next games.”
With more matches to play, Lawal is ready to fight for a medal and make Lagos proud.
