Ofili, Onwuzurike tipped to make Diamond League debut in 2024

Sprinters Favour Ofili and Udodi Onwuzurike have been tipped as the next set of Nigerian athletes to compete in the Wanda Diamond League, athletics’ premier one-day series encompassing 15 of the sport’s most prestigious one-day meetings.

Tobi Amusan remains the most successfully Nigerian in the Diamond League circuit after winning the 100m hurdles three times in succession while Blessing Okagbare has competed in more Diamond League meeting than others.

Other Nigerians who have competed in the competition are sprinters Gloria Asumnu and Divine Oduduru, triple jumper Tosin Oke and long jumper, Ese Brume who made history this year as the second Nigerian to compete in the final of the event and the first field eventer.

Ofili and Onwuzurike, according to veteran athletics coach, chief Tony Osheku could have competed in the Diamond League circuit in the outgoing year if not for collegiate commitments.

‘Ofili put up some eyes-turning performances in 2022, running an incredible 21.96 in the 200m outdoor to become the first and so far, only Nigerian to do so and the second African at the time to do so.

‘Her 22.46 indoors was also the first time a Nigerian would run inside 23 seconds over the half lap while her 10.90 in the 100m also ranks very high in the continent. She would have gotten an automatic invite to the Diamond League at the time,’ said Osheku.

‘Udodi is also in that category,’ argues Osheku.

The outgoing year belongs to the 20 year old who ran 9.92 (100m) and 19.76 (200m) and was crowned NCAA champion in the half lap.

‘I also expect Udodi to be very competitve next year like he was last this. With the NCAA obstacles out of the way and his desire to forego his eligibility and turn professional, it shows he wants to make hay while the sun is shinninh brilliantly,’ added Osheku.

Osheku says he is delighted a couple of athletes who excelled in the American collegiate circuit this year have turned professional.

‘I am eagerly waiting for the outdoor season to kick off next year culminating in what I feel will be a spectacular Olympics in Paris.

‘Irish girl, Rhasidat Adeleke should be one of the athletes to watchout for in both the 200m and 400m although I see her more in the 400m.

‘I also expect Julien Alfred to share the 100m stage with Sha’Carri Richardson, Marie-Josée Ta Lou, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and Elaine Thompson-Herah’.