Residence: Lagos, Nigeria Single
Year-by-Year Highlights:
1994- Third at the Central American Sat. (w/32 pts.).
1993- Winner at West African Sat. (w/38 pts.).
Began playing tennis at age 10.
Father, works in the Lagos police department; mother, is a housewife.
Enjoys playing soccer, basketball, music.
Considers forehand as best shot and a baseliner.
The top-ranked player from Nigeria since 1992 and a member of his
country's Davis Cup team since then. One of only two players from Nigeria
ranked on the ATP Tour Rankings.
Compiled outstanding junior results, finishing No. 9 in the junior world
rankings that year by reaching the quarterfinals at Wimbledon and U.S. Open.
The 16-under African junior champion in 1990 and received a scholarship
to the John Newcombe Tennis Academy in New Braunfels, Texas. Attended New
Braunfels High School for two years and graduated in May 1993.
Qualified in his first career ATP Tour tournament in Toronto in July
1994 and defeated No. 48 Jonathan Stark in the first round.
Coached by Jacques Hervet and a member of the ITF Pro Touring team,
which also consists of Mark Knowles, Wayne Black, Leander Paes, and Tamer El
Sawy (since August 1993).
Turned pro in 1993.